How do I identify the age of the painting?

Age is determined by examining the preparation of the canvas or wood panel, the composition style and the construction methods of the frame. Pigment analysis and stretcher frame design also offer chronological clues. Comparing the stylistic markers of the school or period helps narrow down the decade of creation.

Are the frames original to the paintings?

Many works retain their contemporary frames, particularly pieces from the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries where the surround matches the wear and construction of the artwork. However, some pieces have been reframed over time to suit changing interiors. Inspect the rebate and fixings at the rear to understand the relationship between the painting and its timber housing.

What is a trumeau mirror painting?

A trumeau is an interior architectural fixture combining a mirror plate below an oil painting, all held within a tall wood frame. These decorative pieces originated in France and were designed to hang between windows. The painted panels typically depict pastoral scenes or romantic landscapes characteristic of the period.

How should I care for an oil painting on wood?

Oil paintings require stable environmental conditions away from direct sunlight, excessive heat and sudden humidity fluctuations. These factors prevent the wood panel from warping and the oil paint from cracking. Dust the surface gently with a soft, dry brush and avoid using chemical cleaning agents on the canvas or the gilt wood frame.