Why are paintings put in rectangular frames?

  • Thread starter Thread starter verdigris
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Frames Rectangular
Click For Summary
The discussion explores the impact of using non-rectangular frames, such as triangular, hexagonal, or circular, on the artistic process and the final artwork. It raises the question of whether artists would be compelled to adopt different creative approaches if their works were framed in unconventional shapes. Historical context is provided, noting that the Romans introduced right-angled architecture to the UK, contrasting it with the circular structures of the Celts. The conversation also touches on the practicality of rectangular frames, which are easier to construct, display, and store. Additionally, it clarifies that Romans primarily created wall frescoes and decorated items rather than paintings on canvas, suggesting that the medium influences the choice of frame.
verdigris
Messages
118
Reaction score
0
If paintings were not put in rectangular frames but in triangular or hexagonal or circular frames what difference would this make to the end product?
Would the artist be forced to think differently?When the Romans came to the United Kingdom in the first century AD they brought the idea of right angled buildings with them (the native Celts built circular huts).Did the Romans use rectangular frames for paintings on mainland Europe?
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
http://wings.buffalo.edu/cas/english/faculty/conte/syllabi/377/Images/Picasso_Chair.jpg
Picasso, Still life with Chair Caning, 1912 :smile:
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Probably because paper/canvas is mostly rectangular? :-p
 
verdigris said:
Did the Romans use rectangular frames for paintings on mainland Europe?
The Romans didn't paint on canvas. They did some painting on wood, but mostly it was wall frescoes and some decorated items.
 

Similar threads

Woodworking: How I Built My Own End Tables from Scratch
  • · Replies 42 ·
2
Replies
42
Views
7K
Surface roughness in 2D sinusoidal corrugation
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
4K
The Scientist as Hero - or not
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
News THE CAUSES OF WAR What factors lead to the outbreak of war between nations?
  • · Replies 39 ·
2
Replies
39
Views
6K
Attempt to visualize higher dimensions
  • · Replies 25 ·
Replies
25
Views
6K
News Ahmadinejad's speech at Durban II
  • · Replies 38 ·
2
Replies
38
Views
7K
Challenge Math Challenge - December 2018
  • · Replies 67 ·
3
Replies
67
Views
15K
ECONOMICS: It's stupid to be afraid (Lee Kuan Yew to Der Spiegel)
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
5K
Why do astronauts describe the smell of space as strong, metallic, and unique?
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
4K
News Renaissance and reaction to Islam.
  • · Replies 49 ·
2
Replies
49
Views
8K