Works of art in their own right, frames play an essential and often overlooked role in complementing the artworks they support.  The craft and history of European frames is a fascinating subject and this volume provides a rich and informative guide to the frame maker's art from the thirteenth to the nineteenth century. This handy reference tool features over two hundred entries--arranged alphabetically from abacus to whiting--that concisely explain the techniques, materials, and styles involved in the making of frames.  The introduction gives an overview of the history of frame styles and explains how frames are chosen by artists and museums for specific artworks.  Lavishly illustrated with objects from the collection of the J. Paul Getty Museum, this handbook will be invaluable not only to professionals and collectors but also to all those wishing to increase their understanding and enjoyment of frames.