How should I hang an oil painting?

Support oil paintings securely using appropriate wall fixings matched to the weight of the canvas and frame. Avoid hanging pieces in areas subject to excessive moisture or direct sunlight. Keep paintings away from direct heat sources to prevent the canvas or wooden panel from warping over time.

What is the difference between watercolour and oil?

Watercolours utilise water-soluble pigments on paper supports, creating light and transparent effects that traditionally require glass protection. Oils employ slow-drying binders upon canvas or board, offering rich textures and deep colour layering. Watercolours tend to feel airy and immediate, whereas oils allow for heavier impasto and reworkings of the surface.

How do I care for antique works on paper?

Protect watercolours from direct sunlight to prevent fading of sensitive pigments across the painted surface. Maintain stable indoor humidity levels to safeguard the historic paper support. Ensure framing materials remain acid-free to prevent yellowing and degradation around the edges of the artwork.

Can I date a painting from its frame?

Frames often offer clues to the period of a work, though many pieces were reframed later in their history. Construction methods, wood types and decorative gilt styles align with prevailing tastes of specific decades. Examine the backboards, fixings and corner joints for indicators of age when assessing the frame alongside the artwork.