Hi Mike:
The funny thing is, I've never appreciated (can't think of a better word) my name. My brother was named after two people who meant a lot to my family; I was given my first and middle names because they were pretty-sounding. The historian in the family (me) got the pretty names; the person who is as far-removed from genealogy as can possibly be was named after family. In a small way, it's nice to know that my name actually now has a bit of meaning.
I just looked at the frame again. While I cannot see a pattern (if I'm looking in the correct place), I feel that I can see a "4". What appears to be a "C" to the right of it, I believe, is the remnant of a paint bubble. I've tried your suggestions and my own ideas of trying to get a better glimpse of the area, to no avail, so far. My younger (adult) son has a jewellery loop (which is stronger than a magnifying glass); I will use that when he comes home. I realize that there may not be a date, but it is fun to search for one and I've learned more about the frame!
What is amazing (I'm thrilled by the tiniest of details)
is that while looking at the back, I noticed fingerprints (a relative's? the framemaker's?). This lead me to find out that the frame is not dark brown, it was at one time gold. While the frame has gold highlights, all I noticed when I first saw the frame and photo was how it was so dark (and even with time and wear which should alter the original colour) why would someone place a child's photo in that frame?
My older son is an amateur photographer. When we see see him again, I will see if he can take a macro photo. (He obviously didn't inherit his photography skills and knowledge from me.)
Thank you very much for giving me so many ways to search for a possible date and for your interest. I will be sure to let you and others know if I find out anything more. Thank you, Mike. Lisa