Posted 10 years ago
Happycats4…
(2 items)
Bought this over 30 years ago in SF antique shop on Delores Street in Noe Valley. I love unusual picture frames. This is a linked 'frame' of 2" x 1/2" walnut ovals with a slit in the middle for the next link to fit in and form a 'crown.'
The outside dimensions are 12" x 10".
I saw one on Antiques Roadshow recently that was just the links forming what they called a crown, no engraving or glass or backing. This one includes a photo engraving of U.S. Grant by Gutekunst/J.C.Butne.
The links have been screwed onto a mahogany? backing to hold the artwork and glass. Some are damaged, screw holes split the walnut pieces. You can see that kind of damage at the upper right of oval. Fortunately I have all the pieces. I'm just scared of repairing it myself!
Has anyone ever seen this before? Roadshow called it prison art from Civil War days.
Nice frame-- I have seen these frames before.
The screws appear to be later reinforcement.
I'd call it more "folk art" than Civil War "prison art" unless there is specific provenance/ documentation to verify Civil War prisoner attribution.
scott
Yes, the screws are newer than frame appears to be...and glue has been applied where screws split the wooden pieces. I suppose if I could loosen a few I could get the glass and photo out so to get it cleaned and protected. Otherwise I'll just replace the pieces that have loosened off and leave as is. Shame.
Thanks for the note.
Another great item!