Antique 12" tall Jeweled Photo Frame, French or Bohemian, Figural Ormolu Applique and Gems
Spectacular bit of the mid-1800s, we decided to do nothing to try to clean or brighten all of the appliqué on this huge and stunning jeweled frame, partly because it shows well as the antique it is, and partly because we were concerned the we'd disrupt the old silk velvet upholstery on the body of the frame. Not a whole lot of the nap remains, as you can see, but it represents a time long gone and the months I've sat looking at it, I've decided it is gorgeous just as is. I think it's French, but it might be Bohemian, or even Austrian. All worked in gem set ormolu items in the same early to mid-Victorian era. Usually the Austrian ones had some white enamel painted on highlights which this one does not have. In any case, stunning! I find no gems missing, no breaks in the pressed brass appliqués, feet or crest. I hope we've shown it well. Very good for age and type, showing age in all ways, which is its due. The appliqués are on with small nails and can be lifted and cleaned to bright ag