How do I hang a canvas safely?

Support the weight using appropriate wall fixings suited to the construction of your wall and the heft of the wooden frame. Ensure the hanging wire or brackets are securely attached to the sturdy parts of the frame. Keep the canvas away from direct heat sources and strong sunlight to protect the oil paint and canvas fibres from environmental stress.

How do I clean an oil painting?

Dust the surface very gently with a soft, dry artist's brush to remove loose particles without disturbing the paint layer. Avoid using water, household cleaners or damp cloths on the canvas. Professional conservation is required for deeper cleaning or removal of aged varnish to prevent damage to the original pigments.

How do I date a canvas?

Examine the stretcher frame, nails or staples, and the weave of the canvas for clues to the manufacturing period. Stylistic markers and artist signatures also provide reliable chronological indicators. Inscribed titles or old gallery labels on the reverse often record the precise year or era of creation.