The History of Framing: From Ancient Times to Modern Day

Author: Jesintha Lewis
Date: May 10, 2023

Framing has been an integral part of design since ancient times. From the use of wooden frames to the modern-day designed frames, the evolution of framing techniques has been significant. It has been an essential part of showcasing since ancient times. It has been used to preserve and showcase art, photographs, and other valuable objects. 

Today, personalized photo frames online availability and customized photo frames have become popular for displaying memories, achievements, branding, and more but the history of framing goes back much further than that.

Origin

The origins of framing can be traced back to ancient civilizations such as Egypt, Greece, and Rome. These cultures used wooden frames with framing techniques varying depending on the intended use. At that time, wooden frames were used in paintings on walls to create memories or showcase art, while in Greece and Rome, timber framing was used in the construction of temples, churches, and others.

Advancement from the ancient to the modern era

The first photo frames were made by early civilizations to display their artworks. The Egyptians used frames made of wood and stone to hold their paintings and hieroglyphics. These frames were often adorned with intricate designs and symbols. The Greeks also used frames made of wood and ivory to hold their artworks.

During the Middle Ages, photo framing became more simple and functional. Frames were made of wood and often painted in gold or silver. These frames were used to hold religious icons in churches and homes. The frames were often very ornate, with intricate carvings and designs.

After this, there was a new era in photo framing. Italian artists such as Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo started to use frames to enhance their paintings. Photo frames became an integral part of the artwork, and were designed to complement the painting. Frames were made of wood, gilded with gold or silver, and adorned with intricate designs and motifs.

The 18th century saw the rise of photo framing as a popular art form. Photo frames became more elaborate, with intricate designs and carvings. The frames were often made of wood, gilded with gold or silver, and adorned with precious stones and pearls. The frames were used to display portraits and landscapes in homes, galleries & even in the workplace.

The 90s revolution brought about new techniques for photo framing in the meantime. Frames were mass-produced using machines, making them more affordable for all. Photo frames became simpler and more functional, with less ornamentation. The frames were made of metal, and wood, and were often painted.

In the present time, photo framing became more modern and minimalistic. Frames were made of metal, glass, or plastic, and were designed to be sleek and simple. The frames were often used to display modern art and photography in galleries and museums.

Today, photo framing is a personalized and customized art form. Frames are made of a variety of materials, including wood, metal, glass, and plastic. Frames can be customized to match the decor of a home or office and can be personalized with achievements, branding, and other arts too. Photo framing has become an integral part of interior design, and is used to display cherished memories and artwork.

Final Thoughts

Photo framing has undergone a fascinating journey through history. From ancient civilizations to the modern day, photo framing has evolved from simple and functional to personalized and customized. Photo frames are an integral part of interior design, and are used to display cherished memories and artwork. Whether traditional or modern photo frames, each has gained a lot of popularity and had advanced a lot. 

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