Astragal frame
Unknown Artist
mid-17th century
Medium
Poplar
Dimensions
Overall: 21 1/4 × 27 3/4 in. (54 × 70.5 cm) Sight: 13 3/8 × 19 7/8 in. (34 × 50.5 cm) Rabbet: 14 3/4 × 21 1/16 in. (37.5 × 53.5 cm)
Classification
Frames
Culture
Italian, Veneto
Department
Robert Lehman Collection
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Robert Lehman Collection, 1975
Accession Number
1975.1.2328
Art Historical Context
Welcome to the Robert Lehman Collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, we showcase exquisite examples of European decorative arts. The *Astragal Frame*, crafted in the mid-17th century from poplar wood by an unknown Venetian artisan, exemplifies the refined frame-making traditions of Italy's Veneto region. Measuring 21¼ × 27¾ inches overall, with a sight size of 13⅜ × 19⅞ inches, this frame features the characteristic astragal molding—a subtle, convex beaded profile that adds elegance and depth. Poplar, a lightweight and workable hardwood, was a favored choice for such pieces, allowing car...