In decorating, is it still "in style" to prop a painting/portait rather than hang it?

I would say it is in style - I watch alot of HGTV, Style Network and TLC specifically to get ideas for decorating my home and I have seen that being done alot recently. I was just looking at my 2010 Ikea catalog last night and saw a few arrangements with pictures being placed on shelves and not being hung on the wall. I would say go for it!

you can still give a traditional look to your living room by propping a painting or a portrait against the wall of fireplace mantel as this is one thing that will not go out of style for ever, however, as for the general do's, make sure that the portrait or the painting is in proportion to the place you are leaning it against, i mean it should not be too much so that it is falling off nor it should be to small to look minute in front of a big fireplace mantle

make sure that it is presentable and not something that people get embarressed by or make fun of, the rest is all good, go ahead and place a great portrait or painting of your choice

We are in the age of anything goes...do what makes you happy it's your home. Many people reserve the shelf for cherished possessions then hang the picture higher. It's all a matter with what floats in your room better.

Yes.

And if it makes you happy, don't worry about trends. Your guests won't know whether it is still a trendy way to display either!