Antique Picture Frames, Ltd.

Antique Picture Frames Ltd. was created by Richard Adam Maryanski.  He was born on 06-26-22 in Chicago, Illinois.  A graduate of Taft High School, Richard was the school's first president of the Taft High School Mixed Chorus in 1939.  He was an all-Ohio track & field star for Ohio Wesleyan University in 1943 and an ensign in the Navy during World War II.  He graduated with a PH. B. degree from Northwestern University in the mid 1950's.  He later established himself with distinction as a chemist, carpenter, inventor, and holder of several US patents.   





In the early 1960's, he by chance came across an accumulation of old picture frames covered in dirt and grime.  Upon a little cleaning and closer examination, he was struck by their unique beauty and craftsmanship.  Utilizing his experience as a chemist, carpenter and inventor, he developed skills as a restorer.  He scoured antique shops, flea markets, garage sales and answered newspaper ads offering old frames for sale in order to accumulate inventory.  His dream was to open his own unique store specializing in the sale and restoration of antique picture frames.  His dream became reality as Antique Picture Frames, Ltd. was established in 1965.  As his experience and inventory grew, so did his business. 

In 1973, Richard published "The Antique Picture Frame Guide", the first book in the United States which offered an extensive background of the many aspects of antique frames including their history, description and restoration.  More than 200 public and private libraries in the Midwest obtained copies of this publication.   Richard also distinguished himself in teaching courses in picture framing for adults in continuing education classes. 

For the next 25 years, the inventory of Antique Picture Frames, Ltd continued to grow.  In addition to the sale of the antique frame, custom framing was also offered.  Richard and his apprentice son James, then entered the lecture circuit speaking to antique enthusiasts, quester groups and historical societies throughout the Midwest on the subject of the antique picture frame.  Accompanying the lectures was the exhibition of a unique collection of rare antique frames.  Richard was also active in the Boy Scouts of America.  He was a patrol dad and assistant scoutmaster.  He was awarded the #Order of the Arrow", and mentored his son James to achieve the rank of Eagle Scout.  Richard passed away after an extended illness in 1999.  His son James continues his legacy and the business to this day.  Today, the primary focus of Antique Picture Frames, Ltd. is to offer affordable antique frames in original and restored condition to the general public.