CARE OF YOUR ANTIQUE OR ART PHOTOGRAPHY PRINT

CARE OF YOUR ANTIQUE OR ART PHOTOGRAPHY PRINT

If you have purchased an antique or contemporary art print, or art photography print from our store, then you are in possession of an authentic artwork created by renowned artists and printed on high quality paper.  Art photography prints especially are printed on high quality, archival and museum quality paper, using the best quality pigments.  Antique prints feature hand-made paper, either in laid or woven formats, sometimes featuring coveted watermarks from the manufacturer.

The print should last for at least two hundred years or more if proper care is taken.   Paper is an organic material susceptible to degradation over time, but if you follow these guidelines, you can enjoy your print at its fullest, and pass it on to future generations to come in the same condition in which you received it.

  • Do not hang the print in direct sunlight. You should hang it somewhere rather dark, where you can turn on a spotlight to view it when needed.  Shadowed areas are best.   Colour will fade in direct sunlight.  LED bulbs are the safest lighting.

  • Do not hang the print anywhere where it is too warm, or too cold. Do not hang it in areas where there is moisture or humidity, such as in a bathroom.  Mold will destroy your print.
  • DO NOT frame the print and have the print directly pressed against the glass surface. Over time, the pigments may stick to the glass, making removal impossible without destroying the print. ALWAYS USE ACID-FREE MATTING AROUND YOUR PRINT.  A professional framer will know how to do this correctly.
  • When framing the print, make sure you ask for acid-free or “archival” matting, backing, or any other materials the paper will be in contact with.  Also, use “anti-UV” or “conservation” framing glass if possible. This will deflect most of the harmful light that can destroy and fade paper over time.  Do not use regular tape on the print – the glue will damage it.  Only archival tape should be used by a professional framer.
  • If you will not be framing your print, make sure you have it stored correctly, in acid-free paper or plastic, in a container such as a portfolio that artists use. While you can keep it in a poster tube, we do not recommend this as it will bend the paper.It is best to keep the paper flat and secure.
  • Do not touch your print with your hands. Your fingers contain natural oils that will adhere to the paper. Wear cotton gloves and handle the print with care so as not to bend it. Alternatively, wash your hands with dishwashing soap (it removes oil and dirt) before touching your print, and handle it by the edges only. 

Your print will increase in value over the coming years, so please make sure you keep it in good condition.  We hope you enjoy your purchase!

ANTINOUS ART