Islamic fine art frames often use a repeated Greek key device as well as flowing calligraphy in their designs. We love their sheer brilliance, glittering with the traditions of fine metalwork intrinsic to the region and its cultures.
19th Century Frame with Greek Key design
To achieve a jewel-like intensity, at Bourlet we gild each frame not just once but twice, adding a lavish second layer of gold leaf to increase depth. This technique can easily be translated to another style of profile, where the work of art demands to be treated so.
19th Century with Rosettes
Italian
Our Italian Old Master frames incline to be lyrical and voluptuous so use a softer gesso, then natural clays are used under the gold before dust and delicate, water-based patinas are applied.