If an Oil Painting is properly maintained, it can remain unchanged for hundreds of years, otherwise, cracking, peeling and discoloration of the color layer may occur. How can we protect the canvas from damage?
1. The display location of the artwork is the key. Always hang the painting in a stable environment, as excessive changes in temperature and humidity can cause the canvas to expand and contract.
2. If the picture is hung on the wall near the outer edge of the house, a cork should be placed between the two corners at the bottom of the picture frame and the wall to prevent the work from being damaged by cold and moisture.
3. Seal the back of the painting with wooden boards to prevent the invasion of dust and insects.
4. The dirt at home will cause damage to the paintings, and keeping them clean is the basic work of maintaining collections.
5. Stay away from sprays, insecticides and cigarette smoke, all of which can damage paintings. Do not touch paintings or frames with cleaners, sponges or vacuum cleaners. To remove dust, use a lightweight sable brush.
6. The most common opportunity to cause damage to paintings mostly occurs during transportation and moving. For oversized or expensive pieces, please consider having them shipped professionally. If you decide to do it yourself, check for any loose parts or signs of damage before getting your hands dirty. Make sure the frame is secure. When moving, the front of the painting must face itself. Also be careful with your hands, as dirt and oil from your fingertips can stain paintings and paints.
7. If you store artwork, remember to keep it away from windows, radiators, water pipes and boilers.
8. In addition to the cleaning work of surface dust removal, if you encounter problems with preservation or repair, leave it to professionals to help you.
You can thinly coat two layers of natural beeswax pre-dissolved in turpentine on the back of the canvas, which can completely prevent the damage caused by the immersion of humid air; long-term direct sunlight is the most taboo for Oil Paintings, because ultraviolet rays are very destructive to colors. This will cause it to fade and change color; the room where the Oil Painting is stored must be well ventilated, and attention should be paid to prevent damage to the canvas caused by dust and mildew. The room needs to be kept within a certain range of temperature and humidity; Elevation is likely to cause the picture to stick together and cause the oil paint to fall off and the picture to be damaged.
