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Very unusual and poorly cared for antique picture frame in Eastlake style. I found this tossed in a box without any preservation or care and have taken steps to gently disassemble it, clean what I could and replace the unsecured mat without a backing with an era appropriate photo and at least a paper back.
That said, it’s in rough shape. Please see photos to note countless dings, scratches, defects to the inlay and glass and the mat as well. There are spots where the veneer is missing and chipped off. It is held together with the tiny nails I found it with and without any adhesives.
The frame was found with the large nail shown that unfortunately pierces the front of the frame. I’m leaving as is because it does hold the wire to hang it on- but in order for this frame to function as intended, there will need to be some thoughtful repairs and reinforcement.
The mat is so interesting and unusual. It appears hand painted with ornamental accents that are almost architectural in style. There was a gold toned border that was lost by half long before I found this. It is inlaid with various inset shapes that showcase an unusual blue material that I can’t tell origin of. It resembles feather or fur but could just be degraded fabric of some kind? I’ve seen similar styles with velvet- this seems to have a very different texture.
The mat is in poor condition as well. The material is getting thin/sparse. Whomever cut it originally overcut here and there and there are scratches, spots and wear.
The glass has some bubbling, scratches and a few chips that I tried to capture in photos.
The photo I’ve included was not original to the frame - there was not one in it. The frame is designed to hold a cabinet card sized photo, which is what I’ve placed in here to hold it together and display better. If a more modern image were to replace it, a 5x7 with ample margins would probably work best. It’s just
Not designed to display a modern photo as is.
For someone looking for a a project to repair or restore and or just carefully display this unique piece of design history, this is a special
Piece. I have tried to carefully represent all known flaws- and there are many. Please consider this item as is- for parts or repair due to the number of issues it has.
I will package it very carefully in one piece for transport and it will come from a smoke free home with so much love and good wishes for a caring restoration ahead!
