This large oak frame was built for a client to house a fine art print of Tower of Babel by M. C. Escher. The project was completed in collaboration with Janssen Inlijstwerk, fine art framers based in Herkenbosch. I made the oak frame, and Janssen Inlijstwerk completed the art package, passe-partout, installation, and UV-protective glass.
The client had seen another of my frames (which was cool!) and was interested in the decorative joinery at the corners. We discussed a few options and I made the suggestion of a mitred joint with two keys, a technical challenge that I had practiced but not yet found the opportunity to use. At 55 × 80 cm, this is a relatively large frame, so a reinforced mitre was a sensible choice for extra strength.
I doubt there is a significant structural difference between a mitre with one key versus two, but producing the joint neatly is enjoyable. The grooves need to be cut exactly parallel to the frame edges and parallel to one another, so the result is satisfying to the eye. I like the look of these joints, the keys are also in oak, so they are quite subtle.
The wood itself was grown in Utrecht city. Besides reasons of sustainability, this local oak is good to work with on decorative projects because it is often close-grained and less stubbornly fibrous than, for instance, oak selected and milled for construction. It may be less hard-wearing in some contexts, but that makes it very suitable for picture frames.
For the finish, the client and I chose wax. This gives the oak a slightly more modern, less warm appearance, and it is my preferred finish for oak frames. It is also the finish used on the oak frames shown in the custom framing and gift set sections of the website.
A big thank you to Janssen Inlijstwerk for their work on this frame. The result is really special. If you're in the Herkenbosch area they are a great option for fine art framing.
You can find out more about ordering your own custom frame by using our online custom frame builder, or for more options or special projects you can get in contact about a custom order. If you're shopping for a gift, be sure to check out our personalized giftsets of pre-framed art that you can order gift wrapped. Thanks for your support!
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