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Help framing an historic photograph

post #1 of 8
6/2/10 at 11:34pm
Thread Starter 
A family heirloom was passed down to me a few years ago--a signed photograph of Teddy Roosevelt; my great-great uncle was in the Rough Riders with him.

I've yet to get it framed, largely because I don't trust a run-of-the-mill frame shop to do the job. For those who are more knowledgeable about such matters, what should I look out for? If it helps, I'm in the Houston area, and can travel into Houston to get it done right.
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post #2 of 8
6/2/10 at 11:36pm
A high-quality frameless frame would be nice.
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post #3 of 8
6/2/10 at 11:41pm
Thread Starter 
Quote:
Originally Posted by LabelKing View Post
A high-quality frameless frame would be nice.

Maybe, but I'm concerned about the preservation aspects of framing the photograph. It's nearly a century old and, while in remarkably good condition for its age, in need of some TLC.
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post #4 of 8
6/2/10 at 11:49pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by Vintage Gent View Post
Maybe, but I'm concerned about the preservation aspects of framing the photograph. It's nearly a century old and, while in remarkably good condition for its age, in need of some TLC.

Depending on how it has been handled, you might expect another fifty years at most of life for that photograph unless you have it professionally conserved (I assume it is a print.)

I have no idea what's local in Houston, but you might start by asking for recommendations from your local university museums.


- B
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post #5 of 8
6/2/10 at 11:59pm
Most run of the mill frame shops are actually quite good at knowing what to do with archival framing. It is a common request these days and most materials are available in acid-free options.
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post #6 of 8
6/3/10 at 2:51am
Quote:
Originally Posted by voxsartoria View Post
I have no idea what's local in Houston, but you might start by asking for recommendations from your local university museums.

And/or (phot) art museums, libraries, archives, etc. You could also explore donating it. You might get a nice "Donation from Vintage Gent" placard when it is displayed.
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post #7 of 8
6/3/10 at 6:54am
Get in touch with a photographic archive. They should be able to do a very high quality scan and print of the original for you to display without damaging the original. The original should probably be stored in a controlled cool temperature, it may be best to donate the original to an archive. If you want to hang on to it personally, old gelatin / albumen prints are best preserved in stable cool, dark and dry conditions. Again, a photographic archive will give you the best advice.
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post #8 of 8
6/3/10 at 3:11pm
100% cotton rag, aka museum board.

under no circumstances should you use acid-free mat board.
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