How do I clean an old painting canvas?

Surface dust should be removed gently with a soft, dry brush without applying pressure to the pigment. Water and domestic cleaning agents must be avoided to prevent moisture damage to the canvas and underlying sizing.

Can I hang these paintings in direct sunlight?

Direct sunlight causes oil pigments to fade and accelerates the drying and cracking of older canvas materials. Niche placement away from windows and heat sources preserves the colours and structural integrity of the artwork.

How do I identify the period of a frame?

Frame styles often correspond to the prevailing aesthetic of the painting era, such as heavy Victorian gilding or sleek art deco profiles. Closer inspection reveals construction techniques like hand-cut mitres and traditional gesso application methods.

Are oil paintings on board different from canvas?

Paintings on board utilise rigid wooden panels rather than flexible woven fabric as the primary support medium. This substrate offers stability against sagging but requires careful environmental control to prevent warping.