Pro level frames
 

Most of the better art galleries of Scottsdale, Santa Fe, Hilton Head expect a certain professional grade of frame to be placed on expensive original oils. Taste varies from client to client and region to region but quality in a frame does not. Portrait painters have long bought expensive custom made frames. There are over a dozen first-rate framers across America. Some are hard to find, but the look of a great frame is wonderful. Many artists think 10-20% of the total price is the right price for a frame.

Framed
 

I appreciate that percentage guideline, Tim. My portrait clients are involved in the process selecting their own frame and ask me to approve their selection. They usually end up spending an additional 20% over my price for the painting. It has worked so far.


This May 6 lecture may be of interest to forum members:
"Framing the Portrait - A Historical Perspective"

Stafford
 

I just got a nice frame from Stafford frames in New Hampshire - very nicely leafed - compares to a Guido or Munn.

Tim,

Stafford frames are excellent and reasonable in price. If you haven't so far, you might also want to contact Barbara Carter in Louisville, Kentucky. She's a home operation called Vercelli Frames. Barbara does all her own gilding (and can give you different patinas over the gold leaf). Her frames, some classic mouldings and museum replicas, are outstanding at unbeatable prices. She was one of the exhibitors at the PSA meeting in Reston this year, and she's made all my frames since. Her number is (502) 451-3411

First rate
 

John, you're correct. First rate and good prices.