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Pictures & Frames: Exploring the Artistic Significance of Frames at Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum

See how frames enhance paintings, featuring eleven works from the museum's permanent collection across diverse eras.

Delve into the "Pictures & Frames" exhibition at the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, an engaging display that redefines the role of frames in art. This unique presentation explores how these often-overlooked components are crucial for painting display, guiding the viewer's eye and enriching the artistic narrative. Featuring a selection of permanent collection works from the 14th to 17th centuries, the exhibition highlights the artistry and historical context of frames from various European origins. Discover their styles, evolving fashions, and how they consistently add value to each masterpiece they accompany.

About Pictures & Frames at Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum in Madrid

Read curatorial context and practical visitor information for Pictures & Frames at Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum in Madrid

Exhibition summary

This exhibition showcases eleven works from the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum's permanent collection, highlighting the crucial role of frames in presenting paintings. It explores the artistic significance of frames, including three original examples, demonstrating their variety across different periods and styles.

Curatorial context

Beyond being mere adornments, frames are presented as essential elements in the presentation of paintings, guiding the viewer's gaze and separating the physical space from the fictional scene. This exhibition features an installation of eleven works from the museum's permanent collection, spanning the 14th to 17th centuries, whose frames exemplify the artistic relevance of this component. These frames, originating from Spain, France, Italy, Germany, and the Netherlands, showcase a wide array of styles that reflect their artistic period and the prevailing fashion trends, particularly in furniture. They consistently add value to the paintings they accompany, embellish, and protect. Notably, Baron Hans Heinrich Thyssen-Bornemisza paid significant attention to this singular aspect of collecting and even commissioned studies on the frames in his collection during the 1980s. The exhibition thus offers a deep dive into the artistry and historical context of these often-overlooked elements of art display.

Admission and ticket notes

The page mentions 'Enter the museum for free whenever you want' and provides options to become a 'Friend of Thyssen'. Specific ticketing details for this exhibition are not provided, but general museum entry appears to be free, with opportunities for membership benefits.

Pictures & Frames key exhibition facts

Review exhibition status, schedule, venue context, and attribution details for Pictures & Frames at Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum in Madrid

Venue
Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum
Current status
Open now
Exhibition schedule
From Sep 1, 2024
Artist line / attribution
Features works from the 14th to 17th centuries, including pieces by artists such as Veneziano, Van Eyck, Titian, and El Greco, with a special mention of Baron Hans Heinrich Thyssen-Bornemisza's interest in frames.
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