Floating work

Jimmie Arroyo · 02-09-2005, 08:05 PM

Wondering if anyone can help me here. At the Rubens show at the Met, I noticed that the drawings were not partially covered by mats, they looked like they were floating above the back support and all the edges of the paper were visible.

I also saw something similar at the da Vinci show. I remember seeing a drawing suspended by thread. A piece of thread was attached to each corner so it didn't touch the support or mat. I don't think I saw any thread at the Rubens or they were better camouflaged.

Any help will be appreciated.

Sharon Knettell · 02-14-2005, 05:59 PM

Jimmie,

That is the way conservators frame valuable drawings, and something we should afford our own work.

The drawing are held on with the smallest amount of water reversible archival glue on archival paper hinges. Theses hinges are easily removed from the art work. Much valuable art has had its value reduced by improper matting and framing. The least contact with another material is the best way to conserve works on paper.

Previously little attention was given to the acidic properties of the framing material and irreversible aspects of the attaching tapes used and many works were considerably reduced in value.

I had a beautiful rare Picasso lithograph (a signed edition of 12) that was professionally framed many years ago. The acidic mat stained the piece thus reducing its value.

It is better to float than to mat. There is of course much more to this, this is just a primer.

Jimmie Arroyo · 02-15-2005, 01:30 AM

Thanks for the info Sharon. That's a shame about the Picasso.

IMO, floating looks better also. They give a more important presence. I will do some research on the net about the glue and hinges tomorrow. Thanks again.