“Acanthus and Reed,” the name of the shop owned by Adrian Alganaraz, is written on an ornate frame in the form of a decorative arch as customers enter. It is the first of many beautiful pieces that run the gamut from modern metal frames to gilded reproduction antiques. The name refers to two forms of ornamentation that are common in the world of framing. "Acanthus" is a leaf design in the corner of frames, while "Reed" is fluting on the face of the frame itself. The two design elements were used by the painter James Whistler, who often made his own frames.
Adrian became interested in framing in 1972, when he began to collect contemporary American prints and wanted to mount them in something special. He had been trained as a cabinetmaker, and so he tried his hand at a different kind of wooden crafting, opening his first frame store in 1975 on 79th Street. Aiming to create clean, elegant frames that could stand the test of time, Adrian found his client base growing, and ultimately moved to 76th Street - remaining true to his original values, including the motto, “Less is more.”
Speaking with Nancy, who works with Adrian, I received a fascinating history, delving into the great variety of wares that they stock. She pulled out drawers to display more modern selections and pointed out some of her favorites, noting that all of the frames are made here in United States. I was particularly drawn to some of the exquisite century-old reproductions.
Nancy then spoke a bit about the framing business and how it has changed over the years. She has found that there is not as much street trade: customers now make appointments and come in with interior decorators. Also, not as many people can afford high-end frames, and they are fast becoming luxury items. Acanthus & Reed, therefore, does a great deal of work with auction houses. It was clear, however, from the way Nancy went into depth while showing me the frames, that every customer is a welcomed one, be it an art professional or a novice to framing. There is no doubt that each will benefit greatly from her knowledge.
Acanthus & Reed has relocated to New Castle, Delaware.