Original fine art frames from the Golden Age combine exquisite craftsmanship with a restrained, elegant aesthetic. It's a combination we strive for today when creating carved frames for an Old Master. Nearly all Impressionist paintings are now presented in 18th Century-style "swept" profiles. We love to make these kind of hand made frames, carving and gilding their opulent forms.
With traditional gilded frames, we are often dealing with just one colour, manipulating form and tone to suit the image. But with a painted Modern British frame, we have to find the precise shades and combinations which work with the work. At Bourlet, we try never to stray from the principle that a frame is there to enhance the work.
With traditional gilded frames, we are often dealing with just one colour, manipulating form and tone to suit the image. But with a painted Modern British frame, we have to find the precise shades and combinations which work with the work. At Bourlet, we try never to stray from the principle that a frame is there to enhance the work.
Services
The London firm of Bourlet has made the finest frames for over 200 years and remains a notable authority on restoration and craftsmanship in the art world today. The skills and materials used in making fine frames have not changed for centuries but mastery of them takes a lifetime.
Bourlet fine art framers constantly researches the techniques of the ages, buying original frames to enrich its understanding and adapting traditional expertise to meet the demands of contemporary art.As well as historical accuracy, our individual approach to every single work ensures a frame that responds to the image and its aesthetic above all.
Bourlet fine art framers constantly researches the techniques of the ages, buying original frames to enrich its understanding and adapting traditional expertise to meet the demands of contemporary art.As well as historical accuracy, our individual approach to every single work ensures a frame that responds to the image and its aesthetic above all.
At Bourlet we create around a thousand frames by hand every year. No two will ever be the same - unless the commission requires just that. We use time-honoured techniques and the finest materials available, always combining creative judgement with peerless craftsmanship and the principles of conservation.
Paintings are subject to assault by air pollution, sunlight, damp and humidity, and the general ravages of time. Over the ages, coal and wood fires, traditional gas burners and generations of smokers leave layers of yellowing grime, obscuring the work. Varnish protects the oil pigment from being impregnated by dirt, but old-fashioned oil-based varnishes themselves discoloured rapidly, compounding the problem.
We love creating the first frame for a fresh, new work of art, often in collaboration with the artists themselves. But slightly more than half our efforts go into fine art reframing, a process of transformation with its own challenges and delights. A new owner may have a passion for historical accuracy or a strong personal conviction as to how their own art is protected and presented.
The frames which today we refer to as 'Dutch' originated in the Golden Age of 17th Century Holland with the art of Rembrandt, Hals, van Ruisdael and de Hooch. The dominance of calvinism and its restrained, modest aesthetic created designs which, whilst exquisitely made, were essentially plain, ornament-free, to complement the sombre palate of these portraits, "room-views" and still lives.
Reviews (4)
Ellie Smith
Aug 06, 2021
Report
Isobel James
Jun 23, 2021
Report
I have used Bourlet for both clients and myself and have been nothing but very impressed with the service, the work, the attention to detail and knowledge.
There is an enormous array of frame designs from very understated and traditional to quite the showstopper and all may be finished in the patina and style you like. Equally though Richard and the team understand what works with a piece and can advise accordingly.
I have also recently had an 18th Century frame restored by them due to an accident. The repaired area cannot be seen and the match in gilt is second to none. And a very fair price
There is an enormous array of frame designs from very understated and traditional to quite the showstopper and all may be finished in the patina and style you like. Equally though Richard and the team understand what works with a piece and can advise accordingly.
I have also recently had an 18th Century frame restored by them due to an accident. The repaired area cannot be seen and the match in gilt is second to none. And a very fair price
Richard Chapman
Dec 02, 2020
Report
It's safe to say that Bourlet is no ordinary 'framing shop' - we're talking a whole other level of craft, refinement and beauty. When I take delivery of a Bourlet job, I sometimes wonder which is the artwork, the frame or its contents. They're lovely people too, with impeccable service, providing thoughtful advice. Be warned - one Bourlet frame and you're hooked forever!
Mjo Signwriting
Jan 02, 2018
Report
