Picture frame (cadre) 1730 - 1740

This elaborate picture frame, crafted by Juste Aurèle Meissonnier between 1730 and 1740, exemplifies the Rococo style with its intricate, asymmetrical ornamentation. The frame, carved from wood and adorned with gilded details, showcases the artist's masterful technique and attention to detail. Its complex design features flowing curves, scrolling foliage, and shell-like motifs that evoke a sense of playful elegance. The frame, now housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, is a testament to the artistry of the Rococo era and its emphasis on luxurious decoration.