Many people (and I was once one of them) have long assumed that "Black Forest" style carvings came solely from the Black Forest of Southwest Germany. Indeed, much did (or still does). But far more "Black Forest" carvings originated in Switzerland than most people realize. This frame, for example, is probably Swiss. I purchased it in England, where I believe it spent many years of its life. On the back is the telltale stamp mark: "Foreign." In the late Nineteenth Century, the English passed laws requiring that imported items be marked (either with the country of origin or, simply, "Foreign." At some point after World War One, the English laws were tightened, then requiring the more complete statement, "Made in Germany," (or France or Italy or USA) be marked on imported goods. Similar laws were passed in America in 1923.
Foreign or not, this is, indeed, a handsome frame. Please click on the photo above to learn more about it.
Though our Greenwich Village store is now permanently closed, LEO Design is still alive and well! Please visit our on-line store where we continue to sell Handsome Gifts (www.LEOdesignNYC.com).
We also can be found in Pittsburgh's historic "Strip District" at Mahla & Co. Antiques (www.mahlaantiques.com) or in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania at The Antique Center of Strabane (www.antiquecenterofstrabane.com).
Or call to arrange to visit our Pittsburgh showroom (by private appointment only). 917-446-4248