The frame reflects the Art Deco style, particularly the design of the leading-edge ornament. It is unusual in being assembled from stock sections, making clever use of available framing elements to form a satisfying whole. This type of assemblage, using available profile sections, remains common practice in various forms to this day. It is the only frame by a New Zealand maker identified in the collection.
The frame is assembled from three wooden sections. Each section appears to be a component that might be used on its own, but all are here brought together to form one unit. The leading edge of the outer section carries composition moulding in a pattern of wavy lines. The bevelled flat section is curved deeply on the reverse, suggesting it might otherwise have formed a frame on its own. The last section of the frame is an ovolo running to a fillet at the sight edge. The whole surface is finished in false gold, which has been patinated.
The frame appears to be in good original condition.