The frame is an interesting example of the frames derived from the Louis XV type.1 It uses a deep outer scotia in the profile and fluid scroll work. The annotation of this label with ‘OWN MAKE’ tells a story of its own. It suggests the framing company might equally sell on, under their label, a frame made elsewhere, but also that they are keen to make the distinction about manufacture.
Note
1 Another frame by this company, based on the Louis XV form, is found on G. P. Chalmers‘ Quartermaster Coull (1200-3).
This large-profile, swept-edge Louis XV revival frame is built on a wooden profile, which would have been machined to shape in long lengths. The leading edge and all the ornamentation are applied composition mouldings. The gilding is burnished along the swept edges but not elsewhere. The narrow flat near the sight edge is sanded. The slip is water gilded.
The surfaces appear to be original throughout, despite the gilding flaking extensively from the surface of the inner ogee, exposing a strong red bole. There are losses in the composition and some of the applied sections have lifted.