To frame or not to frame?

Most of my paintings are ready to hang and do not need framing, as I paint right round the edges when working on box canvas. A frame can have the effect of separating the viewer from the scene, as though seeing it through a window: think of the domestic scenes of the Dutch painters of the 17th century, such as Vermeer, who would use the device of foreground doorways and background windows to convey a sense of catching a glimpse in passing. Add a frame by all means, but consider what effect you want. Sometimes I paint on board (it will say on the details), and such paintings will need framing, although you won’t need glass.