The primary function for all picture frames is to serve as a
border encompassing a pictorial image. Secondly, they are to
relate that image to its immediate surroundings; finally they
must protect and set apart an item of spiritual value. The
highly refined jewelry which decorated early altar pieces
suggested the glories of heaven, and the elaborate altar pieces
developed in the 14th and 15th century Italy imitated a
mediaeval cathedral in a cross-section. These heavenly settings
were the very beginning of picture frames. 16th century Italian
designs were absorbed by the Spaniards, and by the mid-17th
century, had converted it into a Spanish achievement. In 17th
century Flanders and Holland, paintings of all subject matters
were produced for the rising merchant class, as well as for the
nobility and the church. The first frames native to France are
the Louis XIII style, from the beginning of the 17th century,
and were derived from the garlands of fruit from the Della
Robbia terracotta borders. During the seco