Framing antique maps is an art form that combines aesthetics with preservation. Antique maps are not just decorative pieces; they are historical documents that carry stories of their lifetimes, often including exploration, trade, war, and political intrigue. When framing these rare documents, you must consider beauty and conservation to maintain their integrity for future generations. Here are some expert tips for framing antique maps beautifully and safely.
Conservation Framing
Conservation Framing comprises a range of techniques and methodologies that prioritize the preservation of valuable and delicate items, such as rare maps and other historical documents. It ensures that the map's condition is maintained by limiting exposure to harmful elements. This approach is especially crucial for antique maps as it shelters them from environmental damage, such as light, humidity, insects, and pollutants.
Acid-Free Materials
One of the key components of conservation framing is the use of acid-free materials. Acid inherent in the document, other papers, glues, and framing materials can cause yellowing, brittleness, and degradation over time. When framing an antique map, it is essential to use acid-free matting, mounting, and backing to prevent adverse chemical interactions with the old paper. The industry standard for acid-free matting is Acid and Lignin-free Crescent RagMat® Museum Board, which comes in multiple thicknesses and colors.
UV-Filtering Glass
Another critical aspect of conservation framing is the use of UV-filtering glass. Ultraviolet rays can fade and weaken paper over time, so using glass that filters out these rays will protect the map from light damage. This type of glass is available in both non-glare and regular finishes, allowing you to choose based on your display preferences.
This glazing will likely be the most cost-intensive part of your framing project. The current gold standard for UV filtering is Tru Vue Optium Museum Acrylic®; however, your framer may be able to recommend a more cost-effective alternative based upon where and how you plan to display your framed map.
The Right Frame for Your Rare Map
Selecting the right frame is not just about aesthetics; it also involves practical considerations to ensure the map's longevity. Here are some factors to consider:
Frame Material
The frame material should complement the map while also providing durability. Wood frames are a popular choice for antique maps due to their classic look and sturdy nature. However, metal frames can also offer a sleek and modern contrast to the vintage aesthetic of a map. Large elaborately carved and gilded baroque frames, commonly used for paintings and other fine art, are poor choices for maps, as they overwhelm then often simple cartographic images.
Frame Size and Proportion
The frame size should be proportional to the map's dimensions. A frame that is too large or ornate can overwhelm the map, while one that is too small may not provide adequate support or protection. Ensure that there is enough space between the map and the frame edges to accommodate matting and prevent direct contact with the glass.
Historical Integrity
The holy grail frame choice for an antique map is a period frame corresponding to when the map was made. These can be hard to find, but there are specialist frame dealers who can help. Most antique shops will also have stacks of old frames that can be purchased and repurposed - especially if your map is from the 18th-20th centuries, as old frames from these periods are readily available. While an older frame may require restoration or minor repairs, or need resizing, you will often find it is both cheaper and more 'in tune' with your map than modern alternatives. We make a practice of acquiring and saving attractive period frames that we find at antique markets for just this purpose.
When an antique period-correct frame is out of the equation, you can still chose a modern frame a period-appropriate style. Some framers may be able to advise on this, but you will be best served to do your own research on this matter. Such research can take the form of google searches or a visit to a historic map collection that retains older framers - such as the Royal Geographical Society in London, and other such institutions.
Matting Techniques for Antique Maps
Matting not only enhances the visual appeal of a framed map but also serves as a protective barrier. Here are some matting techniques to consider:
Float Mounting
In almost all situations, we recommend floating your map. Floating the map on a mat board allows the edges of the document to be visible. This technique emphasizes that the map is a historical three-dimensional artifact, not just a modern print or photograph. This technique is also a very effective way of celebrating the fact that few historical documents are perfectly square or flat. It brings their life and history to the fore rather than trying to hide it behind boards or attempting to force it to conform to 'poster' standards. It works exceptionally well with wall maps or dissected maps which are naturally three dimensional.
One trick to make 'floats' stand out even more is to use a smaller concealed piece of mat board under the map or document to create space, thus truly 'floating' it.
Floated maps can still incorporate muti-ply, double, or tripped matting to balance color, emphasize certain qualities of the map, or just create space. The main difference is that the matting does not overlap the paper's edges.
Over the Paper Matting
The alternative to float mounting is traditional matting. Maps can be single, double, or even tripped matted, a technique that involves using multiple layers of mat board to create depth and draw attention to the map. It is possible to use a single mat, even a thick triple or quadruple-ply mat, to create extra depth.
In the case of double or triple matting, the top mat is usually a neutral color, while the underlying mat(s) can use contrasting color to highlight specific features of the map. While double matting can be used in conjunction with a float technique, as noted above, it more commonly overlaps the edges of the paper.
This overlap technique is most common with art prints and photographs. The only time we recommend it with rare maps is when the margins are stained or otherwise disfigured such that they visually detract.
Mat Color
When choosing the right color for a mat board, your best bet is usually a neutral tone. Consider 'drab' cream, tan, and olive tones. You can choose to match or contrast the map's paper tone. Avoid bold color tones that will distract from the piece. In some cases, particularly with modern frames, black or even stark white matting can also work well. Black matting is most effective with uncolored maps on clean paper that have their own strong black-white contrast - such as maps by Chatelain, Coronelli, or Dudley, or those of the Lafreri-school cartographers. Some mat boards feature linen coating, which works very well with old paper - as in the image above.
Framing Techniques for Preservation
To ensure your antique map is preserved in its framed environment, consider these essential framing techniques:
Adhesives
Adhesives can be used, but they MUST be non-caustic, pH-neutral, and reversible. Some conservation framers advocate for archival corners or other hinging techniques that allow the map to be mounted securely without direct contact with adhesives. While ideal from a conservation perspective, this is sometimes impractical. There are many conservation-grade glues and tapes that can be used at no risk to your artwork.
Sealed Environment
Creating a sealed environment inside the frame can help protect the map from dust, insects, and environmental changes. This can be achieved by using high-quality sealing materials around the frame edges and closing the frame with backing paper.
What to Avoid
Inevitably, a situation will arise when a client takes a map to a trusted framer, possibly recommended by a friend, another dealer, or even a well-known auction house. The framer then proceeds to recommend a host of procedures, including conservation work, possibly linen backing, and/or dry mounting. These recommendations may be good-intentioned or the framer may simply be trying to inflate the bill.
Many such recommendations might be appropriate for other types of art but would damage the integrity of your antique map or historical document. For example, poster dealers regularly canvas-back posters and then apply a layer of varnish to the surface. When applied to a 19th-century or 20th-century advertising poster, this procedure can make restoration easier, stabilize the often enormous pieces, crate a 'flattened' effect, and enhance the color. On an antique map or other old document, this approach is rarely advisable and will almost always decrease the value and lifespan of the work.
Displaying Your Framed Antique Map
Once your map is beautifully framed, consider the best location for display. Avoid direct sunlight, which can cause fading regardless of how much UV protection you have in place. Choose a spot with stable temperature and humidity levels. Displaying your map in a low-traffic area can also minimize the risk of accidental damage.
Conclusion
Framing antique maps requires a careful balance between aesthetics and preservation. By using conservation framing techniques and selecting the right materials, you can ensure that your rare maps are not only displayed beautifully but are also protected for years to come. Whether you're a collector or a history enthusiast, framing your antique maps properly will allow you to enjoy these treasures while preserving their historical significance.
Remember, when in doubt, consult with a professional framer experienced in handling rare documents to ensure your maps receive the care and attention they deserve.
One of the key components of conservation framing is the use of acid-free materials. Acid inherent in the document, other papers, glues, and framing materials can cause yellowing, brittleness, and degradation over time. When framing an antique map, it is essential to use acid-free matting, mounting, and backing to prevent adverse chemical interactions with the old paper. The industry standard for acid-free matting is Acid and Lignin-free Crescent RagMat® Museum Board, which comes in multiple thicknesses and colors.
Another critical aspect of conservation framing is the use of UV-filtering glass. Ultraviolet rays can fade and weaken paper over time, so using glass that filters out these rays will protect the map from light damage. This type of glass is available in both non-glare and regular finishes, allowing you to choose based on your display preferences. This glazing will likely be the most cost-intensive part of your framing project. The current gold standard for UV filtering is Tru Vue Optium Museum Acrylic®; however, your framer may be able to recommend a more cost-effective alternative based upon where and how you plan to display your framed map.
In almost all situations, we recommend floating your map. Floating the map on a mat board allows the edges of the document to be visible. This technique emphasizes that the map is a historical three-dimensional artifact, not just a modern print or photograph. This technique is also a very effective way of celebrating the fact that few historical documents are perfectly square or flat. It brings their life and history to the fore rather than trying to hide it behind boards or attempting to force it to conform to 'poster' standards. It works exceptionally well with wall maps or dissected maps which are naturally three dimensional.
When choosing the right color for a mat board, your best bet is usually a neutral tone. Consider 'drab' cream, tan, and olive tones. You can choose to match or contrast the map's paper tone. Avoid bold color tones that will distract from the piece. In some cases, particularly with modern frames, black or even stark white matting can also work well. Black matting is most effective with uncolored maps on clean paper that have their own strong black-white contrast - such as maps by Chatelain, Coronelli, or Dudley, or those of the Lafreri-school cartographers. Some mat boards feature linen coating, which works very well with old paper - as in the image above.