Frames

Varying in shape, style, size, period and material, our collection of frames is as diverse as the pictures and objects they contain. Most frames have been donated to the Museum along with paintings – but 'empty' frames have also been collected as independent objects, chosen for the fine quality of their carving and decoration.

One of the most elaborate frames in our collection is an English rococo carved wood frame, probably made by Paul Petit around 1751 for a portrait of George III. You can see such beautiful picture frames on display throughout the Museum, along with examples of fine mirror frames. 

Search “Frames” in Explore the Collections

Features

Read

Framing Botticelli

V&A Senior Conservator Zoe Allen explores a range of beautifully carved and gilded frames from the exhibition Botticelli Reimagined

  1. Read

    Conservation of a rare mother-of-pearl frame

    Conservation work on an intriguing mother-of-pearl frame led to some fascinating discoveries
  2. Watch

    How was it made? Water gilding

    See the stages involved in gilding a gold frame
  3. Watch

    Marie Antoinette conservation: revealing the controversial queen's portrait

    See the work close-up

Collection highlights

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  1. frame
    Tortoiseshell frame, 1640 – 1700, Belgium
    V&A South Kensington
    On display
  2. frame
    Tabernacle frame, 1475 – 1500, Tuscany, Italy
    V&A East Storehouse
    View by appointment
  3. oil painting and frame
    French Regency frame, 18th century, Paris, France
    V&A South Kensington
    On display
  4. frame
    Mannerist frame, 1550 – 80, Belgium
    V&A East Storehouse
    View by appointment
  5. painting and frame
    Carved frame, made by Paul Petit, about 1751, Britain
    V&A South Kensington
    On display
  6. frame
    (Detail) Frame, about 1500, Siena, Italy
    V&A South Kensington
    On display
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Header image:
Background image: Trophy frame (detail), carved and gilded, probably Paul Petit, about 1751, England. Museum no. W.35,2-1972. © Victoria and Albert