If you are lucky enough to have an original etching, engraving, or lithograph, you’ll want to both display and protect it in a setting that complements the artwork, not takes away from it. Many of these paper-borne artworks are unusual sizes, and all artwork has special care requirements to preserve it in the long-term. Morningside Gallery has over thirty years of experience working with delicate or fragile materials, and is dedicated to preserving your prints for generations to come.
Museum Framing
Museum framing is the highest degree of protection possible for a framed object. Geared even more toward the long-term protection of your valuable art prints than conservation framing, museum framing uses only the absolute best materials for protection and preservation.
UV Filtering Glass
When exposed to natural sunlight, high-intensity artificial light, or fluorescent light, over time prints will fade, discolor, yellow, and deteriorate. Many of these prints are valuable, unique, and irreplaceable, so Morningside Gallery takes every precaution to avoid damage over time. Specially treated archival glass is available that blocks out the worst of light’s damaging rays to protect your valuable paper-borne art. Specially treated non-glare glass and plexiglass are also available.
Acid-Free and Non-Lignin Backing
Many cheap mats and backers are not designed for archival quality, and contain acid and lignin that will damage your prints if used long-term. Lignin is a naturally-occurring substance in wood that will damage your print, and is present in boards made from ground wood pulp. Manufacturers must chemically treat paper products remove lignin and to ensure that the pH balance is maintained between 8.0 and 8.5. Always use acid- and lignin-free paper products to ensure the longevity of your prints.