The NGV Centre for Frame Research supports and promotes excellence in picture frame research, frame reproduction and preservation, building upon the NGV Conservation team’s work with frames over the last thirty years. The development of the Centre is generously supported by the Professor AGL Shaw AO Bequest.
Frames are significant works of cultural material and are important in the presentation of individual artworks and collections more broadly. Historical and scientific research contribute to our understanding of artists’ framing preferences and the materials and technologies used in frame making. Research findings inform conservation treatments on historic picture frames, as well as the creation of historically accurate reproduction frames. A key aspect of the Centre has been the establishment and employment of a frame maker at the NGV, supported by skill development and mentoring. Combining traditional frame-making techniques based on historical evidence and museum replication methods, this position will help the transfer of these rare skills into the future.
The Centre for Frame Research microsite includes an extensive breadth of articles and multimedia, with a particular focus on nineteenth-century Melbourne frame makers. Topics include information on caring for picture frames, frame-making techniques, and conservation and reframing*A process of replacing an existing frame on an artwork. At the NGV reframing is based on research to determine the relationship between the frame and artwork, the artist’s framing preferences and frames of the period, with reference to historical examples and archival material. projects, while the Frame and Frame Makers database links to information on frames in the NGV Collection.
We are grateful to the numerous NGV staff involved in creating this microsite, and in particular the departments of Conservation, Multimedia and Photographic Services. Every effort is made to present accurate information. Please contact us at frames@ngv.vic.gov.au if you wish to supply further information relating to the website content or other topics about picture frames.
* A process of replacing an existing frame on an artwork. At the NGV reframing is based on research to determine the relationship between the frame and artwork, the artist’s framing preferences and frames of the period, with reference to historical examples and archival material.