Pastel over Fireplace?

[Julie Deane]

I hope this is an appropriate place to post this question.

I have a client who wants a picture of her three children to hang over the fireplace. Would it be safe there?

The portrait is supposed to be in pastels.

[Richard Monro]

Paintings over fireplaces are a long and honored tradition in many homes. Unforturnately almost every fireplace will belch smoke and combution byproducts into the room from time to time.which will dirty up the painting somewhat over time. Pastels under glass will have somewhat more protection, but the problem remains.

[Julie Deane]

Thanks, Richard. I know an oil painting would have a harder time of it, since the heat would make it expand and contract, there would be smoke into the layers, etc. So at least pastel doesn't have that problem.

I guess I will try to wangle getting the framing done myself to ensure that the backing is WELL sealed.

[Sharon Knettell]

Julie,

I do not see any problem, as it will be covered with glass.

Better there than in an very bright room, which can damage the pastels with UV rays.