Framing - Protective Glazing

Protective Glazing

The best way to protect a work of art is to store it in a hermetically sealed drawer filled with argon, away from all light and airborne pollutants. But there is little point in doing this if you want to enjoy looking at it!

Exposure to ultraviolet rays can cause irreversible damage to a work of art. The symptoms include faded colours, yellowing, bleaching of paper fibres and the darkening of certain pigments. In addition, paper and other base materials can become brittle and degrade. The effects are cumulative and lasting; but since they occur subtly and over time, they can often be difficult to notice at first.

Since ultraviolet rays are present in both natural and artificial light, it is not enough simply to move your frame away from direct sunlight. Fortunately, a number of glazing options exist that can reduce the effects of ultraviolet rays. We recommend glazing with a UV filter of 99 per cent, particularly for watercolours, historical pieces and other delicate works.

At John Jones we recommend Museum Standard Glazing selected by our consultants to most appropriately match the size of the frame.

As well as filtering harmful UV rays, glazing can also cut down on reflection. The use of inappropriate glazing materials can turn any frame into little more than a mirror. In rooms with natural light, or those in which reflection cannot be avoided, we suggest using modern coated glazing; when lit properly, it is so low-reflective that it is virtually invisible. Current technology ensures a high standard without the green tint of other glasses.

With large works, and those that are to be shipped in their frames, it is prudent to use Perspex glazing with UV filtration. Not only is this lighter and therefore much easier to move around, it also – more importantly – protects the art from becoming damaged if the glazing breaks in transit.

We are continually researching into the latest scientific developments, allowing new materials to appear on the market. For example, we can now provide glazing that is resistant to scratches and prevents the build-up of static; the latter is particularly important with loose pigments such as charcoal, chalk or pastels. One of the latest developments is a clear white laminated glass that not only filters UV rays, but is also low-reflective and shatterproof. Our consultants will talk you through the varieties on offer to select the best one for your artwork.