L-14 Polished Unlacquered Brass Victorian Picture Rail Hook
L-DK14 Antique Brass Finish Victorian Picture Rail Hook
L-N14 Nickel Plated Victorian Picture Rail Hook
L-OB14 Oil Rubbed Bronze Finish Victorian Picture Rail Hook
These were used when pictures were hung from the sculptured moldings that ran along the walls of Victorian homes. The picture rail could be mounted close to the ceiling, or a foot or more below ceiling height. In either case, the pictures were hung at head level or eye level, even if the ceilings were very tall.
The weight bearing wire was often hidden by a ribbon or silk cord with tassels. Today, they're useful not only for their decorative value, but to avoid putting holes in the wall. You'll still find picture rail hooks in galleries and shops around the world.
This lovely Victorian style picture molding hook measures 1 3/4" tall by 1 1/2" wide.