Modern Profile Picture Frame
Decorative Accessory / Wall Decor · Contemporary Minimalist · Unknown mass-market manufacturer (e.g., Larson-Juhl style or big-box retail framing).
Type
Decorative Accessory / Wall Decor
Style Period
Contemporary Minimalist
Material
Likely extruded aluminum or plastic composite frame with a red enamel coating, paper matting, and glass or acrylic glazing.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990-present day.
Dimensions
Approximately 18 inches high by 14 inches wide (total exterior), which is a standard mid-size for framed sketches.
Origin
Likely North American or European manufacture, late 20th to early 21st century.
Designer/Maker
Unknown mass-market manufacturer (e.g., Larson-Juhl style or big-box retail framing).
Value Estimate
$20 - $50 (Retail value of the frame and matting only, excluding the value of the original artwork).
Description
A contemporary thin-profile picture frame housing a watercolor and ink sketch of a European canal scene. The vibrant red frame provides a sharp contrast to the muted, earthy tones of the artwork, while the double-matting effect with a red accent line draws the eye inward toward the bridge motif.
Key Features
Slim metal or resin profile, high-gloss red finish, double-effect matting, and mitered corner construction.
Color & Finish
Glossy or semi-gloss vibrant red finish with a neutral off-white or cream mat featuring a red inner reveal/bevel.
Construction Method
Machine-manufactured with mitered corners and tension spring or clip assembly; mass-produced design.
Joinery & Craftsmanship
Fixed mitered joints with internal corner brackets; standard modern framing precision.
Wood Grain & Species
None visible; likely metal or synthetic material with a smooth, solid-colored surface.
Surface Treatment
Coated with a pigmented lacquer or powder-coated finish for a smooth, uniform appearance.
Upholstery Details
None (non-upholstered item).
Hardware & Fittings
Concealed turn-clips or flex-points on the rear; likely wire-hung or saw-tooth hanger on the backboard.
Origin & Provenance
Likely North American or European manufacture, late 20th to early 21st century.
Condition Notes
Good; frame shows no visible chipping, though the matting appears to have slight discoloration or shadowing typical of non-archival materials over time.
Interesting Facts
The red 'inner mat' line is often referred to as a 'fillet' or a 'bevel accent,' designed to coordinate the frame color with the artwork's periphery.
Cultural Significance
Represents the late 20th-century trend of using bold, primary colors in framing to modernize traditional landscape art for contemporary interiors.
Similar Pieces
Standard gallery frames or shadow boxes; distinguished by its ultra-thin profile and colored enamel rather than natural wood or gilding.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a microfiber cloth and a small amount of glass cleaner applied to the cloth; avoid spraying directly near the frame edges to prevent moisture seeping into the mat.
Value Estimate
$20 - $50 (Retail value of the frame and matting only, excluding the value of the original artwork).
Sustainability Notes
Likely contains non-recyclable composite or treated aluminum; longevity is high if kept in a climate-controlled environment.