Arnold Wiggins & Sons are picture framers providing both antique and reproduction frames for Old Master and Modern paintings and works on paper. Wiggins are renowned for their extensive stock of antique frames, craftsmanship and framing advice.
The picture frame, as a work of decorative art, enhances the appreciation of a painting, defines its importance and adds context. Wiggins’ framing suggestions are both historically appropriate and visually stimulating. The Wiggins Frame Archive is a valuable resource for researched framing suggestions.
Arnold Wiggins & Sons has a long history of craftsmanship. Arnold Wiggins was apprenticed to his grandfather’s East End furniture making business in the late 19th century and both his sons joined him in the business as carvers and gilders. Specialising in Picture Frames in the inter-war years Wiggins built up an enviable stock of frames and a reputation as knowledgeable craftsmen dealers. This tradition is continued by Michael Gregory.
Michael Gregory
Michael Gregory studied Carving & Gilding, and Conservation of Decorative Surfaces, at City & Guilds of London Art School. On graduation in 1980 he joined Arnold Wiggins & Sons working alongside Jim Wiggins as a carver.
Fascinated by the picture frame as a link between the decorative and fine arts Michael has documented pictures in their frames in museums and collections worldwide.
With informed taste, and combining his skills as a craftsman and frame historian, Michael advises museums and private collectors on historically appropriate frames for a wide range of paintings, from Old Masters to Contemporary. Michael sources appropriate frames for paintings that add historical context and visual understanding to the work. Where a reproduction frame is to be made he designs and makes section drawings from careful observation of the antique.
Michael Gregory has held the Royal Warrant as Picture Frame Maker to Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother and Her Majesty The Queen since 1991. He regularly lectures on the history and craftsmanship of picture frames and has published articles on the subject.
The Team
