Framing
Our Framing Department
At John Jones, we pride ourselves on keeping alive the fine craftsmanship that has gone into making frames for centuries. We have become masters of traditional designs and also leaders in innovative signature pieces and new profiles all using a meticulous and scientific approach to conservation. From traditional hand-gilded gesso work to the modern Perspex-box frames that we pioneered in the 1960s, we can produce any variety of picture frames to order.
Our highly skilled team of craftspeople undergo in-house training to master the skills and acquire the technical knowledge necessary to make our frames. We have over fifty specialists, including designers, conservators, colourists, gilders, metalworkers, drymounters and fine-art presentation handlers. Every one of them is dedicated to the combination of centuries-old traditions and cutting-edge technology that allows us to produce frames to the very highest standards.
The second and, in many ways, even more fundamental purpose of frames – to protect – is a comparatively recent development.
Originally watercolours, prints and other delicate artworks were stored in albums or folios, and would have to be taken out specially in order to be viewed. It was only when plate glass became widely available that it became possible to keep them on permanent display. Frames allowed the works to be hung and protected at the same time.
Our rigorous technical standards ensure that the finished frame will provide the safest and most protected environment for artwork.
