Preservation of these often historic documents is always the uppermost concern and with good conservation framing they will last for future generations to appreciate. Our clients are often surprised about the variety of possibilities that are available for framing documents, the style can be contemporary or traditional, conventional or a little more unusual. Microchamber mountboards that actuallly aborb pollutants and acids can be employed and mounting methods that will not alter or interfere with the artefact. Often a document will be double sided and we have ways in which both sides can be displayed if required. Our example below shows a 16th century illuminated vellum page held in place by a custom computer- cut museum mount allowing both sides to be displayed behind museum glass and acrylic with no glues, pastes or hinges. It could be removed from its framing unchanged in condition. Framed documents will always need to be located in a stable environment with low humidity and low light conditions.
Mounting
Both contemporary and traditional approaches will require certain considerations such as the quality of the mounting boards, the width and colour of any window mount and whether you wish to see the edges of the substrate. Should the document have discolouration, losses, folds, creases or tears which need attention, we can liaise with our paper conservator and provide ways forward with an estimate and details provided before proceeding.
Framing
When choosing a frame think about period and feel of the image, what you like and what might suit your interior and/or purpose. It is often best to keep it simple. Box frames will be needed for more three dimensional items. Remember that larger images are going to need stronger frames to support them.
Glazing
We would always advise on the use of Museum, UV filtering glass or acrylic to protect your document against fading of inks and pigments or discolouration of papers. If reflections might be a problem, modern anti-reflection glass is advisable.
Conservation
Restoration and conservation of documents are usually possible, depending on the materials and substrates used, and, when expertly done, can produce excellent results.
