Date of Award

5-1991

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Valuation Sciences

Abstract

This study presents a systematic framework for the identification, classification, and valuation of historic American picture frames produced between 1650 and 1930. Traditionally, frames have been overlooked in art historical research, often treated as peripheral to the artworks they surround. However, frames provide critical insights into aesthetic trends, craftsmanship, and cultural values across multiple centuries of American decorative arts. The author outlines a methodology for assessing frame styles, construction techniques, and ornamentation in order to establish reliable standards for appraisal and cataloging.

The work traces the evolution of American frames from colonial adaptations of European models to the richly ornamented styles of the nineteenth century and the streamlined aesthetics of the early twentieth century. By highlighting stylistic markers and material characteristics, it offers a practical guide for distinguishing period authenticity from later reproductions or alterations. Central to the approach is a valuation system that combines qualitative analysis with comparative market research, providing curators, conservators, collectors, and appraisers with tools to assess both monetary and cultural significance.

The text also situates frames within the broader context of American art history, emphasizing their role as independent works of design as well as functional objects. It underscores the importance of considering frames not merely as accessories to paintings but as cultural artifacts that embody the tastes, values, and social aspirations of their time.

Through detailed case studies and systematic categorization, this research establishes a foundation for further scholarly inquiry while offering a practical resource for museums, auction houses, and private collectors. By codifying the methods for identification and valuation, the study advances both academic and market approaches to historic American picture frames, ensuring their recognition as significant components of the nation’s artistic heritage.

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