When it comes to framing portraits, most of the usual rules apply that you’d expect when framing any other kind of art. Start with the basics, and select a frame that complements the portrait, brings out the colors and plays off the lines or details of the painting.
But there are differences, too. Two of the main issues that are often presented have to do with achieving harmony and symmetry among other paintings and the setting where the portrait will hang. Here are examples of both situations.
The Setting and the Portrait have Different Styles
It’s easier when the painting is traditional and will hang in a traditional home, or the portrait is modern and will be in a modern home or setting. But what if the setting and portrait are opposite?
In one case, an artist had a subject and composition that were extremely traditional. There were strong colors in the clothes and surroundings, which was a reflection of the subject. On the other hand, the building and foyer area where the portrait would hang was modern with anodized gray metal walls. It was crucial to create harmony.
To achieve this, a traditional frame was selected which had minimal detail to help bridge the gap and gave it a smooth, modern feel. Then the framerselected a red bole/clay color to pick up the warm colors of the painting and gilded with Palladium to give it a light antique finish. This blended in well with the metal walls.
These selections allowed a traditional styled portrait to present itself in a modern setting and look completely at home.
The Portrait Needs to Match and/or Stand Out from Others
Another example was recently encountered at a school in Massachusetts. An artist was commissioned to paint the headmaster and his wife, and the portrait was to be hung among those of the previous headmasters.
There was a broad range of framing on the existing portraits, from minimal to large and ornate. This portrait was to be hung beside or near one with a very large, ornate frame. In this unique case, the portrait in the large, ornate frame happened to be by artist John Singer Sargent. It was an honor to be in such company, but it presented a challenge.
People would likely be drawn to the Sargent first, and our artist’s portrait would be viewed after. But it was still important to impress, so a wide molding was chosen to give the portrait presence. Since the Sargent frame was so ornate, our artist went more simple. There was a touch of flourish to the frame to complement and enhance details in the painting. The 23 karat gold with a medium antique finish gave the portrait an aged appearance to help it co-exist with all the other frames on display.
These are just two of the challenges artists and framers face in the world of portrait framing. With good input from the artist and strong effort from the framer, most problems can be overcome, and even turned into a visual benefit to enhance the portrait and achieve visual symmetry.
*Information for this article provided courtesy of Bill Craig, Guido Frames, Boston
Portraits, Inc. was founded in 1942 in New York on Park Avenue. Over its 70-year history, Portraits, Inc. has carefully assembled a select group of the world’s foremost portrait artists offering a range of styles and prices. Recognized as the industry leader, Portraits, Inc. provides expert guidance for discerning clients interested in commissioning fine art portraits.