Finding the correct place to hang a antique painting or print is crucial to keeping it in a good condition. Your antique painting or print will certainly benefit from the proper display, storage and care.
Ensure that your painting or picture is securely hung in a place that is neither damp, in bright light or above a source of heat such as a fire or radiator. Make sure that you allow a slight gap between the antique painting and the wall. This ensures that air can circulate around the painting or print.
Only use metal picture wire and brass picture hooks, the size and number required obviously depends on the size and weight of the painting or print. Always screw the eyehooks into the frame itself, never screw them into the stretchers or backboard.
Cleaning a antique painting or print can be tricky and deep, intense cleaning should only be carried out by a professional. The only cleaning that should be carried out is a light dusting with a soft dry cloth or feather duster.
Lighting is also a important consideration when hanging a antique painting or print. Bright lighting can fade the pigment in painting and prints and this is especially so in watercolours and prints. Therefore, it is very important that you painting is not displayed in direct sunlight and that any light that you put on the picture is low watt and voltage. Never be tempted to photocopy a painting or print as the bright light can cause severe damage.
If you need to store your antique paintings it is best to remove all picture hooks. Store the paintings in a cool, dark, clean and dry place. Stand the picture on wooden blocks to keep them off the floor, place acid free boards in between each painting or print. Cover the paintings with a clean sheet, never use plastic sheeting as this can encourage mould to grow. If the artwork is unframed, wrap the prints in acid free tissue paper and place inside a acid free folder or box. Do not be tempted to simply store them in a plastic wallet as these can cause the paper to discolour