The frame is one of a number of highly finished frames that show a very refined level of craftsmanship in their manufacture. It is distinguished by the basic structure, which uses smaller sections of timber than usual to build the base of the profile. The subsequent hollow nature of the chassis has allowed the overlying form to remain stable, without cracking or distorting. Similarly, the torus section is almost free of cracking. The maker is identified by an ink stencil applied to the timber pieces that brace the structure in the centres of the sides on the reverse. The stencil transcribes: C M MAY, 18 St Ann’s Court, WARDOUR STREET, W. GILDER & FRAME MANUFACTURER.1
1 The company came into existence towards the end of the nineteenth century and traded until 1922. May worked extensively for John Singer Sargent, advertising the use of both English and French craftsmen. See Jacob Simon, The Art of the Picture Frame, National Portrait Gallery, 1996, p. 135.