This style of moulding and frame is generally called a Louis XIII, I bought the basic moulding, with the scrolls and flower pattern in a 3m length, it is cut to size on a mitre saw and joined together, then I applied the acanthus leaves over the corners. This hides the mitres and makes it look more handmade. I then sprayed a couple of coats of gesso all over. Next a couple of coats of yellow bole are applied, then red bole is painted on the high lights of the ornament. Bronze powder bound in rabbit skin glue is stippled on the frame, then the high lights are given a rub with an agate burnisher. The final stage is some distressing and colouring over the gold to knock it back and give a softer finish.
