This 18th century frame from the Lowy collection was deaccessioned from the Metropolitan Museum of Art in 1992. When Lowy Frame and Restoring Co. acquired it, the frame was covered with a black layer of dirt and grime, obscuring the gilded carvings and vert antique ground panels, which were found to be in remarkable condition underneath.

After Lowy’s tireless restorers painstakingly removed the buildup, we discovered an intricate and enigmatic design. Because the frame incorporates a range of exemplary patterns and motifs from many different artistic styles, its provenance is not entirely certain. Most experts believe the frame is Italian, but Larry Shar wouldn’t rule out Germany or even England. In any event, as the phoenixes suggest, this frame should be immortal!

Call 212-861-8585 or join our mailing list to find out more about Lowy Frame and Restoring Co.’s collection of over 5,000 antique frames, the largest anywhere in the world.