Traditional artwork displays were usually paintings and drawings displayed on a wall within a picture frame. The frame separated the artwork from its surroundings and gave it visual importance to focus the viewer’s attention. The earliest framed painting dates from AD. 50-70, and is a perfectly preserved Ancient Egyptian portrait. In the twelfth and thirteenth centuries, hand-carved wood frames were developed for churches, carved from the wall in situ. A painting would be added afterwards, and was not a portable work of art.
Picture Frames
The first independent framed wooden panel was a separate altarpiece made in 1423 (‘Adoration of the Magi‘, Gentile de Fabriano). Originally, oak was used for wood frames. Later, pine became more popular because of economy and comparative ease of carving. Wealthy and important patrons chose frames made of walnut, ebony, tortoise shell or inlaid ivory. In the seventeenth century, papier mâché frames became popular as framers sought to speed up the process of creating carved frames. The pattern for the frame was simply pressed into the papier mâché.
Contemporary Artwork Displays
Nowadays, artwork displays in the home are very different. Classic interiors may still include traditional oil paintings in moulded gilt frames. But there is now a much greater variety of art display options available. To begin with, frames are no longer obligatory. Unframed canvas paintings and prints can be hung directly on a wall. This gives an unfussy, modern appearance. However, artwork that needs the protection of glass can be framed with metal, wood or plastic mouldings. There is a huge range of colours to choose from, including gold or silver. Coloured cardboard mounts emphasise a smaller picture and extend its size. Another option is to use textures, such as wool tapestries, oriental silk scrolls or collages with a fabric backing to make interesting wall hangings. They can add warmth to an interior.
How to Display Artworks in Your Home
For a contemporary effect, try arranging several pictures together on one wall to form a personal ‘art gallery’. Or, use the wall beside your staircase as a background for an artwork display. This can be very attractive and interesting for people to look at as they go up or down stairs. A designated picture shelf can also be used to display several small paintings in a row together. Otherwise, a mantlepiece or bookshelf may be a good place to exhibit your favourite prints or paintings. A set of stepladder shelves or an easel could make an eye-catching feature for artwork displays to brighten up a plain corner of a room.
Art displays usually have more impact if the colours in the pictures relate well to the interior decor colour scheme. The colours should either match and blend in, or they can be opposite in colour. For example, a yellow and orange print provides an accent note in a blue interior.
Visit the Goldcrest Gallery fine art print collection, or browse our range of canvas prints to find some great inspiration for your individual artwork displays!