The original purpose of a picture frame was to protect the painting, and create a focus by placing it in isolation. In many cases, the history of an antique picture frame can be more fascinating than the painting itself. Archaeologists have found examples of frame making that date back to the 2nd century B.C.. The borders that were drawn around Etruscan cave paintings indicate an acceptance of the idea that the frame was an effective way to isolate and distinguish a particular painting.

The first carved wooden frames did not make an appearance until the Middle Ages. These frames were the first antique picture frames that we know of to be physically united with the painted surface. The frame maker and the artist were usually the same person.

This would change during the Renaissance, when frames were made by furniture makers and wood carvers. As such, the frames often reflected the furniture styles of the times. During this period, the cassetta frame was born in Italy. They were characterized by their flat center panel and raised edges. The circular tondo frame was also popular. The circular pattern of these frames, which usually depicted the Madonna and Child, represented eternity.

In the Baroque period of the 17th Century, funding moved from the church to the monarchy, and Paris displaced Rome as the center of the art world. Ornately carved, three-dimensional sculptural frames were made for ceremonial portraits of royalty. There were two distinct styles of picture frames from this period. Architectural were simpler and used geometric shapes. Ornamental frames, such as the Rococo style, were gilded and featured floral designs. The gilded frames were popular for their ability to transform light. Today, many of these antique picture frames are available for purchase.