CARE & HANDLING
All original artworks require careful handling and climate-controlled storage to ensure longevity and maintain value.
INITIAL HANDLING
PROCEDURES
HAND-PAINTED ARTIFACTS ARE SENSITIVE TO MOLECULAR TRANSFER AND PHYSICAL STRESS.
GLOVE MANDATE
Always wear clean, white cotton or nitrile gloves when handling the work. Oils and salts from human skin can cause irreversible oxidation of the paint surface over time.
Support Logic
When moving an original canvas, support it from the structural frame or stretcher bars. Never apply direct pressure to the painted surface or the back of the canvas.
ENVIRONMENTAL
CLIMATE CONTROL
ATMOSPHERIC STABILITY IS CRITICAL TO PREVENTING MATERIAL FATIGUE (CRACKING/WARPING).
Thermal Range
Maintain a consistent temperature between 65°F and 75°F (18°C–24°C). Avoid placement near HVAC vents, fireplaces, or exterior doors.
Humidity Delta
Target a Relative Humidity (RH) of 45%–55%. Rapid fluctuations in humidity cause the canvas and wood to expand/contract, risking paint delamination.
Storage Proscription
Never store artifacts in unconditioned environments such as attics, basements, or storage units lacking climate synchronization.
PHOTIC SHIELDING
LIGHT IS THE PRIMARY CATALYST FOR PIGMENT DEGRADATION.
Solar Exposure
Avoid installation in direct sunlight. Even indirect UV exposure can cause "photochemical fading" over a 10-year horizon.
Glazing Specs
For framed works, ensure UV-filtered glass or museum-grade acrylic (99% UV rejection) is utilized to shield the artifact from ambient light.
MAINTENANCE
& CLEANING LOGIC
ORIGINAL ART REQUIRES A "NON-INTERVENTIONIST" CLEANING APPROACH.
Chemical Prohibition
Never use water, glass cleaner, or chemical solvents on the painted surface. These will dissolve the binding agents in the paint.
Surface Clearing
Use only a clean, dry, professional-grade microfiber cloth or a soft-bristle hake brush to remove dust. Apply zero downward pressure.
INSTALLATION
SYSTEMS
Mounting Hardware
Use professional-grade picture hooks rated for at least 2x the weight of the artifact.
Structural Integrity
Ensure the wall substrate is capable of supporting the load. For high-value Tier A artifacts, professional art installation services are recommended.
AUTHENTICITY & PROVENANCE
Maintaining the artifact's technical documentation is essential for value preservation. In the event of a future resale, the original invoice and this protocol are required to verify the artifact's provenance and archival history.