Reviews

I purchased this book to better understand and appreciate frames. I was not disappointed! The book starts with a general description of what is involved in making a gesso frame. With photographs to illustrate the process, it is a wonderful tutorial on how high quality picture frames are constructed. The remainder of the book is full of great pictures of antique picture frames and how they are used to enhance the art they surround. The book is a visual feast. I highly recommend it.

Not many people would see this as a great book, But if your into craftsmanship or framing you can not go wrong. This was a companion book to a frame ehibition that toured museums in the U S, I saw it in Norfolk Va. and immediately got the book. As Ferris says "If you have the means I highly recomend it"

As a long time furniture maker and also someone who is making frames, this book has a wealth of photographic history documenting frames from the beginnings of the art movements in Europe and is separated by the styles popularized in the different countries. As a novice carver and gilder, I can really appreciate the craftsmanship shown by the photographs. They're both inspiration and intimidation!

I bought this book as a gift for my husband, whose family has been in the picture frame business for over 40 years. I really bought it for the photographs, which are truly outstanding. They illustrate the beautiful, hand-carved frames of long ago, when gold truly meant genuine gold leaf. This book is almost a history of frame-making.

Reviews

Low quality frontal drawings are too small and in not-enough detail; the reader gets no idea of depth, detail, and dimensions of molding. The view of the Sully frame, for example, would be of little use in identifying a Sully frame on sight. Eye-opening prices and thoughtful, well-written text.

What an amazing story of the way period frames came into their own. This book is the perfect way to start an understanding of the value of frames or to enhance your knowledge tremendously. This is a must have for anyone interested in the art of framing!

This is the best way to begin or refine your understanding of antique American frames.

It struck me as odd that people were tossing these things of craftsmanship and age simply because they didn't think they could profit in a monetary sense. It was the death and destruction of antique frames that has made them rare. So many died, so so many could live. I am sure marketing was the key factor in showing the buyer with the bucks the joy and appreciation of the vintage frames beauty. And so to Mr. Eli Wilner belong the spoils. I found the book enlightening and enriching. Dealers who trade in these wares should buy numerous copies and send them out to their customers for the holidays.

I purchased a copy of the first edition of Antique American Frames a few years ago because of a keen interest I have in American painting and antiques. The book totally transformed my perspective on frames, and now when I am shopping for antiques or considering the purchase of a painting, I take notice of the frame. Using the knowledge gleaned from this book, I fancy myself a budding frame aficionado. I was expressing my newfound passion to my cousin and ended up giving her my copy. I often take the book with me to the store or gallery I am visiting, so I immediately orderd a replacement copy for myself. I was delighted to find that there is a currently a second edition of the price guide available, complete with the latest prices. The 2nd edition also contains a wonderful chapter on collectors, both collectors of paintings in antique frames, and, just the frames themselves. I was particularly struck by the analogy of the period frame to vase; when you think about it, vases are valued the world over just by themselves and exhibited empty. You never think about something being missing. I highly recommend the 2nd edition of Antique American Frames Identification and Price Guide as a must-have for anyone who appreciates the power and beauty of American craftsmanship and artistry. Like the final sentence in the new chapter says "at last period frames have come into their own."

Reviews

The Gilded Edge is a beautifully comprehensive explanation of American period framing. Not only is it informative, but includes detailed pictures of the frames it describes. What an educational account of the bond between the frame and the art it surrounds. A must have and wonderful gift for anyone interested in art or framing!

A wonderful reference book. The frame and painting have never looked so good together.

This is a great addition to any library. It is a truly eye-opening publication about the rich history and art of framing over the years. You'll never look at a painting the same way again.

As a painter I have always loved art, but I never gave the frame much consideration due to the fact that my, as well as many of my contemporaries', paintings are unframed. Upon reading "The Gilded Edge" I realized not only the importance of the frame throughout art history, but also the importance of the frame in terms of the paintings themselves. There are lots of gorgeous photos of frames as well as their respective paintings. Also featured are detailed descriptions of the methods of construction as well as the reasoning behind the aesthetic criteria of the frames. This book has opened my eyes to the importance of frames as well as their beauty. It's a must buy for anyone interested in art.

With unparalleled insight from key contributors, this is an exquisite measure of a book. The Gilded Edge is a celebration of the rarity and awareness of American period frames. Eli Wilner blends the perfect amount of knowledge with striking visuals to leave you wanting to learn more. The Kuehne frame on page 43 is one frame among many that will open your eyes to the depth and magnificence of the history of framing.