Inscriptions on the back of the canvas
 

I would like to write the name of the portrait subject, title (if any), my full name and the year on the back of my paintings.

What should I use to write this on with, since it's raw linen back there? Graphite? Charcoal which is then sprayed with a fixative like Krylon? I don't want to cause long term damage to the linen fibers.

Thanks!

Bars
 

Pencil is safe on the fibers but you can write on the bars with a sharpie.

Michelle,
I use acrylic gesso and acylic paint to make my inscriptions. As acrylic is a common ground for linen canvas there should be no harm at all.

I get a small brass plate engraved with the subject's name and "by" my name, and the year. I put it on the back of the stretcher with small brass screws. It is a classy way to do it.

Great idea, Michael! It sounds too nice to be hidden by the framer's backing paper, but at least in 100 years when someone wants to do some conservation work on your masterpiece, they'll take the frame off and see your name right there.