Thursday, March 15, 2012

Gutta-percha picture frames are unique

Most antiquers are familiar with old photographic portraits set,singly or in pairs, into decoratively molded cases.

During the last century, early photographs were commonly mountedin square, rectangular or round cases formed from gutta-percha, arubberlike plastic. Produced in muddy shades of brown, black and(less frequently) green, the material was used for a variety ofmoldings.

Some molded frames were works of art. Hinged and oftenfeaturing an ornamental clasp, they opened to reveal a decorativegilt border and sometimes plush accents surrounding a prized photo.

Dorothy Kliebhan of Antique Treasures (Booth 55) at the AntiqueMarket III, 413 W. Main in …

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