A trio of sepia-tone prints by Mexican photographer
Casasola creates a simple but striking composition on a
cornflower blue wall. Sepia refers to the reddish-brown tone
that distinguishes these images. Because each photo is
embossed in the lower right corner, stamped on the back, and
given a version number to help identify its worth, we wanted
to have access to the prints. By hinge-mounting them, we can
easily remove the photographs from their mount boards.
Though these photos are unrelated, we still created a coordinated
look with one custom and one store-bought frame. The top photo was
treated with a custom-made gunmetal gray aluminum frame with a grainy
finish, while the bottom photo received a shiny, ready-made charcoal
gray aluminum frame that came with a mat. Like many old pictures,
neither is a standard size, so we also had a mat custom-cut for the
bottom one rather than use the mat that came with the frame.
Both photos are surrounded by mats that complement their particular
faded or yellowed tones, and each has a dark line around the photograph
to define it. Around the top photograph, the dark line is created by a
gray undermat. The bottom photo is framed by a mat board with a black
core that's revealed by a bevel cut.
Propping a framed piece, as opposed to hanging it on the
wall, allows you to easily substitute other photos and accessories
for a different effect or seasonal look. We placed this old picture
of a monk looking out to the Mediterranean on a white fireplace
mantel. Nonslip tabs on the bottom of the frame ensure it won't
slide to the floor.
This photo is double-matted with acid-free, conservation-quality
mat board. Contrasting with the pink wall, the pale blue bottom mat
helps draw the eye to the image. On top, an unbleached linen mat
with natural flecks provides visual texture. The carved frame
contributes to the exotic mood of the picture.
