Many clients have discovered that retrofitting their important family photo into an age-approriate frame can be very rewarding. Each frame’s distintive style, craftsmanship, and patina of age is a true decorative reflection of of the period’s life and times.

For those clients interested in framing, we offer a wide selection of miniature (5x7”) and smaller authentic antique photo frames dating from the earliest years of commercial photography through the 1940’s. Our collection of major styles, includes Renaissance and Rococo Revival, Eastlake, Esthetic, Rustic, Art Nouveau, Arts & Crafts, and Art Deco. We stock only frames in good condition with minimal flaws and wear. With about 700 in stock,we can provide a good selection for any given photograph.

You can be confident that our frames are authentic. Starting with our first frame purchase in 1993, we became ardent students of American antique commercial photo frames. Along the way, we have built a library of books and references on both frames and old photos.

Last, and certainly not least, considering the cost of new frames and materials, quality antique frames are a relative bargain. And they are the real McCoy.

How we came to sell antique frames

We discovered the powerful appeal of combining family photos with antique frames in 1993. It came when a client requested that we buy an authentic frame for his restored 1890’s family photo. We soon found a large oval antique frame. The visual effect of the shiny brass frame with curved glass combined with the sepia portrait, proved to be dramatic and pleasing. An impressive, inter-generational heirloom had been created. With the client’s permission, a replica of the original photo and frame appears immediately below.

Since then, we have seen this phenomenon occur many times. While the emotional importance of the photo is at the heart of it, other factors are important. The frame’s patina of age, materials, old craftsmanship, and distinctive style visually confirm the age of both frame and photo. It is helpful if the photograph itself is well composed. Often, a substantial artful effect is added through coordination of the photo’s size, tone, or colors to complement those of the frame.

Fascinated by our first experience, we began to scour antique shops and malls, learning as we went. Starting with two dozen frames the first year, sales proved brisk enough to expand purchases. As our inventory increased, we could provide a larger selection for any given photo. By 1998, purchases were exceeding 200 each year. As of this writing, our total frame purchases are nearly 2,600. The fact that 1,900 have already found their way into the homes of clients and their relatives provides simple testimony to their compelling appeal.