Where should I hang a gilt framed pastel?

Hang these works away from direct sunlight and sources of damp or excessive heat, such as open fires or radiators. Ultraviolet rays fade fugitive pastel pigments over time, while humidity damages both the paper support and the gesso beneath the gilding. An interior wall with stable ambient temperature and indirect light provides the ideal environment for long-term preservation. Ensure the wall fixings match the weight of the timber and glass.

How can I tell a genuine period frame from a modern copy?

Examine the construction corners, the type of gesso preparation, and the wear patterns on the gold leaf. Period gilt frames show subtle shrinkage cracks in the gesso and thinning of the gold where handling occurred over generations. Backboards made of old timber secured with handmade nails or early screws also indicate period assembly. Modern replacements often use uniform synthetic moulding without the historical patina.

Why are pastels often covered with glass?

Pastel is pure dry pigment held to the paper by minimal binder, making the surface extremely fragile and easily disturbed by touch or air movement. Glass creates a protective physical barrier that stops airborne dust and accidental smudging. Historically, makers placed a spacer or mount between the drawing and the glass to prevent the chalk from touching the glazing. This gap remains essential for preventing condensation against the delicate surface.