Rembrandt’s Grace Encased: John Davies Framing Marries Art with Craft

In the exclusive world of fine art, the alliance of a painting and its frame is a delicate pas de deux of aesthetics and preservation. John Davies Framing, with a legacy spanning over fifty years, recently bestowed its craft upon a treasured piece of history — Rembrandt’s “Portrait of Petronella Buys”.

Commissioned in 1635, this portrait is a time capsule of elegance, where Petronella Buys is immortalized amidst the trappings of her era’s finery. Her ensemble is replete with an expansive white lace ruff, accented by a double strand of pearls and gold chains, all brought to life under Rembrandt’s deft brushstrokes. The artwork’s provenance traces back to the renowned Jacques Specx collection of the 17th century, a testament to its historical pedigree.

John Davies Framing has created a bespoke frame that resonates with the painting’s Dutch origins. The octagonal, ogee, and flat profile stretches 10cm wide, crafted from polished pear wood atop a pine base. This choice of design and material honours the period, showcasing John Davies Framing’s dedication to authenticity and artisanal excellence.

Despite scholarly debates over the attribution of the entire portrait, the painting, now part of The Leiden Collection, stands as a testament to Rembrandt’s mastery and to the artistry of the period.

John Davies Framing’s contribution is more than mere adornment; it is a curatorial gesture, a pledge to preserve the narrative of art, and a salute to those who appreciate the symbiotic relationship between artwork and frame.


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