Business Details
Antique & Bespoke Picture Framing Experts
Paul Mitchell Ltd has been a trusted authority in the field of antique and bespoke picture framing for over 45 years. Specialising in frames from the 15th to the 20th century, the company serves museums, private collectors, dealers, and auctioneers worldwide. Our extensive inventory includes Italian, Spanish, French, British, and North European frames, offering clients the choice of original period pieces or high-quality handmade replicas crafted by master artisans. With a focus on enhancing the presentation of artworks through judicious frame selection, we provide tailored appraisals and framing proposals supported by a unique Photographic Archive and Library. Our expertise has been instrumental in reframing iconic works by artists such as Rembrandt, Van Gogh, and Czanne, ensuring historical accuracy and aesthetic harmony.As members of The British Antique Dealers Association and partners of Sotheby's Preferred, we combine deep industry knowledge with a commitment to excellence. Our team, led by founder Paul Mitchell and director Mark Mitchell, brings decades of experience in frame history, appraisal, and conservation. The company's collaborations with major institutions, including the National Gallery of Art and the Yale Center for British Art, underscore our reputation as leaders in the field. Our services extend beyond framing to include scholarly publications and educational initiatives, contributing to the broader understanding of frame history. With a renovated gallery in London's Avery Row, we continue to set standards in craftsmanship, research, and client service, ensuring every artwork receives its optimal presentation.
Services
Framing Appraisals
Framing Proposals
Antique Frames
Handmade Replicas
Mirror Frames
Highlights and features
- We have over 45 years of experience in historical picture framing.
- Our inventory spans 15th- to 20th-century European frames.
- Handmade replicas are crafted by master artisans to exacting standards.
- We collaborate with major institutions like the National Gallery of Art.
- Our Photographic Archive is the largest of its kind globally.
Associations and certifications
- The British Antique Dealers Association
- Confdration Internationale des Ngociants en Oeuvres d'Art
- Sotheby's Preferred
Services
Framing Appraisals
We assess frames on individual works or entire collections, detailing period, nationality, quality, and suitability. Our appraisals highlight important frames and suggest improvements through reframing. Clients receive detailed reports to inform conservation or acquisition decisions.
Antique Frames
Our inventory includes original frames from the 15th to 20th century, spanning Italian, French, Spanish, and North European styles. These are ideal for museums and collectors seeking authentic period pieces to complement artworks.
Handmade Replicas
We commission master craftsmen to create precise replicas of historical frames. These are tailored to match the style, materials, and finish of original pieces, ensuring artworks receive historically accurate presentations without compromising quality.
Framing Proposals
Using digital montages or physical trials, we propose frame options for artworks. Clients receive visual comparisons and cost details, enabling informed choices between antique originals and handmade replicas for optimal presentation.
Mirror Frames
We provide bespoke framing solutions for mirrors, combining historical styles with modern aesthetics. Our designs enhance architectural spaces while maintaining the craftsmanship and attention to detail synonymous with our art framing services.
People
Paul Mitchell
Founder & Director
Paul established the company in the mid-1970s after studying Architecture & Fine Arts at Cambridge and Art History at the Courtauld Institute. His photographic archive is the largest of its kind, and he co-authored two seminal books on frame history.
Mark Mitchell
Director
Mark joined the business full-time in 2004 after graduating from Oxford Brookes University. He specialises in frame appraisals and collaborates with major institutions, advising on authenticity and presentation of historic collections.
Mary Ross-Trevor
Head of Operations
Mary has managed operations for over 45 years, overseeing projects, inventory, and client liaison. Her organisational expertise ensures seamless execution of complex framing commissions and logistical coordination.
Questions
What services does Paul Mitchell Ltd offer?
We specialise in antique and bespoke picture framing, appraisals, and framing proposals for artworks.
Do you work with international clients?
Yes, we serve museums, collectors, and institutions worldwide.
Can you create replica frames?
Yes, our master craftsmen produce high-quality handmade replicas of historical frames.
How do you ensure historical accuracy in framing?
Our extensive Photographic Archive and Library guide authentic frame selection and replication.
Have you worked on notable artworks?
Yes, including Rembrandt, Van Gogh, and Cézanne, enhancing their presentation through reframing.
