Twisted acanthus leaf frame
Unknown Artist
late 16th century
Medium
Poplar
Dimensions
Overall: 18 11/16 × 20 1/8 in. (47.5 × 51.1 cm) Sight: 12 3/16 × 13 1/16 in. (31 × 33.1 cm) Rabbet: 13 5/16 × 14 3/16 in. (33.8 × 36 cm)
Classification
Frames
Culture
Italian, Venice
Department
Robert Lehman Collection
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Robert Lehman Collection, 1975
Accession Number
1975.1.2130
Art Historical Context
This exquisite *Twisted Acanthus Leaf Frame* from late 16th-century Venice the ornate craftsmanship of Renaissance Italy. Crafted from poplar wood—a lightweight, easily carved hardwood favored by Venetian artisans for its fine grain and workability—the frame features intricate twisting acanthus leaves, a classical motif inspired by ancient Greek and Roman architecture. These scrolling leaves, symbolizing enduring vitality, were a staple in Venetian decorative arts, transforming simple wooden borders into sculptural jewels that elevated paintings. Measuring 18 11/16 × 20 1/8 inches overall, wi...