How do I date an oil painting?

Examine the canvas, stretcher frames, and the type of pigments used, as these materials evolved noticeably between the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. Signatures, framing styles, and inscriptions on the reverse of the panel or stretcher also offer reliable clues to the decade of creation.

Are watercolours prone to fading?

Watercolour pigments on paper can fade if exposed to direct, strong sunlight over long periods. Hang them away from bright windows to preserve the original tones. Glazing with protective glass helps shield the paper from ultraviolet light and environmental dust.

What is the difference between oil and watercolour?

Oils use slow-drying paint bound in oil, applied to canvas or panels to build rich textures and deep colour layers. They do not require glass for protection. Watercolours utilise water-soluble pigments on paper, creating translucent washes that demand glass framing to prevent moisture damage.