Shaped frames, a bit of history.
The shaped frame is the model that has been able to cross all the centuries of the history of the frame, being always part of it, going beyond styles, merging with them. But it is also the most authentic expression of every style and every era, because it allowed and still allows today to give full freedom of representation using both design and decoration.
In past centuries it was the masters of painting themselves who inaugurated stylistic methods of shaped frames. An example of this is the ‘Sansovino’ frame, named after the sculptor and architect who lived in 1500 (photo gallery at the end of the article); the ‘Salvator Rosa’, named after the painter who lived between the 17th and 18th centuries, to continue, for example, with the study and experimentation in the avant-garde period by Giacomo Balla, one of the many experimenters of new trends.
From this period onwards, the shaped frame, as well as interpreting the work, continues its experimentation by also following its lines, itself suggesting the subject, in a sort of “double shaping”: the one of the frame itself (section) and the one of the canvas, as in Dalì’s ‘Couple with heads full of clouds’, where the frame reinforces the very close relationship with the work itself, as when the painting and frame were a single piece.
Technical details and uses of the shaped frame
In today’s historical period, in which the types of flat and box frames are dominant due to the cleanliness of their shapes and their minimalism with which artworks, photographs and prints can be expressed, produced and then viewed, shaped frames lead to a more structured vision of the artwork that they contain, fishing in the memory of tradition while allowing itself to play with shapes, in an absolutely dynamic, non-obvious dialogue between content and container.
The shaped frame is in fact a type of decorative frame characterized by a profile that is not simply rectangular or square, but features curved shapes, wavy patterns, carvings or elaborate designs. This type of frame is often used to frame works of art, mirrors or photographs, adding a touch of elegance and refinement to the context in which it is inserted.
Main features of shaped frames
- Elaborate Design: Shaped frames may have wavy outlines, floral carvings, geometric patterns, or other decorations that give a unique look.
- Style: They are often associated with classical, baroque or rococo styles, but there are also modern versions with simpler and more linear shapes.
Decorative use: In addition to their function of framing and protecting the work, shaped frames play an important role as a decorative element, becoming an integral part of the overall aesthetics of an environment.
The different applications
Art: Classical paintings, especially those with religious subjects or portraits, often use shaped frames to enhance their beauty and embellish the subject.
Mirrors: Shaped frames are also very popular for mirrors, especially in environments such as living rooms and bathrooms, where an element of luxury and style is sought.
- Photographs: Photographs can also benefit from shaped frames, especially in contexts where a touch of elegance or nostalgia is desired.
Our mouldings for shaped frames
Imex creates mouldings for shaped frames of different shapes, sizes and finishes, with the possibility of customizing the design. Contact us for more information and to request a quote for customized production.
Photogallery, the “Sansovino” shaped frame
