MASTERPIECE

For centuries, art connoisseurs, collectors and dealers focused primarily on the painted panels of a work and not on the frame. Many frames were replaced if they were damaged or if they were simply no longer to people’s taste, unless they featured an inscription or other important information, as is the case here. Since the 1960s, there has been renewed interest among art historians in frames and pedestals, because of the information they contain. In addition to inscriptions, dates, monograms and paintings, frames are also interesting for their material value and because the design says something about the fashion of the time. The golden inner edge and painted outer edge of this triptych are entirely in keeping with 15th-century taste. The cornice, in turn, is a unique element. Although it also dates from the 15th century, it is uncertain whether it was integral to the design stage or was added shortly after completion. Either way, it is an important historical document.