A fabulous high quality vintage pair of picture frames, available separately, in classic ormolu with the quintessentially French bow design, popular in the Napoleon III era. Frames of this quality are a rare find, even in Paris.
 
They have fabulous detailing with an Egyptian inspired early art deco pattern and beading around the edge, this suggests they were made in the early 1900s in the transition period between these two styles, so very à la mode when purchased.
 
They have delightful litle legs and solid metal backs and stands, the sign of quality. The backs are attached with little brass screws and one is missing from each, however they hold the picture firmly. 
 
The frame with the mid 20th century picure seems to have been updated later (the frames are the same age). On opening to clean the glass, it had another older picture inside with a younger and beautiful lady, resembling the outer portrait. These ladies could be the same person or maybe more likely, sisters.
 
There is some patination of age and they have not been polished to leave their history intact. The slightly convex glass appears to be original as it is thick and good quality to match the frames. One has had an accident and there is a fingernail size chip in the glass, it remains firm and stable and this only noticable in certain agles , although difficult to photograph clearly, there is one close up. This is part of the frame's history, but the price has been reduced to take it into account.
 
They stand just over 7" tall and 5" wide.