How do I hang a pair?

Hang the two portraits at eye level, spaced evenly so they converse across the gap. Keep the centre point of the pair aligned with the furniture below them. Ensure both frames are secured with two hooks to prevent them from tilting crookedly on the wall over time.

Were these always kept together?

Companion portraits were commissioned and framed as a pair to commemorate marriages, family alliances or partnerships. Their survival together reflects generations of careful preservation by successive owners. Separating them usually destroys their historical narrative and visual symmetry.

How do I date the frames?

Examine the timber construction, joinery methods, and the type of gilding applied to the moulding. Regency and Georgian frames often feature distinct composition ornaments and simpler sight edges compared to later Victorian variants. Original glass bubbles and backboards also offer clues to the age of the housing.

Can I reframe an oil painting?

Changing the frame alters the historical integrity of the piece and risks damaging the edges of the canvas or panel. Most collectors prefer to keep portraits in their original companion surrounds even if minor wear is present. Consult a restorer before attempting any reframing work.