Reframing a Silk Artwork - Preserving a Treasured Piece
Protecting a Delicate Heirloom
At JW Frame Crafters, we often see cherished pieces that have been framed for decades. Over time, older framing materials can begin to damage the artwork they were meant to protect. That was the case with this silk artwork, originally framed in the late 1970s. The patron had loved it for many years, but the materials had started to deteriorate, putting the artwork at risk. To ensure its preservation, we carefully removed all of the old framing, matting, and glass.
The Importance of Restoration
Silk artworks are especially delicate. Their fibers are sensitive to light, moisture, and acidic materials. Unfortunately, mat boards and glass from earlier decades were often not archival, and over time they can cause staining, fading, or warping. For this project, we took a conservation-minded approach. By starting fresh with archival materials, we could protect the artwork for decades to come while enhancing its beauty with a new design.
Selecting New Matting
Matting is more than a border—it creates breathing room between the artwork and glass, while also setting the tone of presentation. For this piece, we selected a cream mat with a red liner. The cream provides softness and balance, allowing the intricate details of the silk to stand out. The red liner was chosen to complement the Chop, the artist’s seal mark at the bottom corner. This small but thoughtful detail ties the presentation together and gives the piece a cohesive design.
The Hudson Frame in Black and Gold
For the frame, we chose the Hudson Collection from Larson Juhl in black with gold accents. This design adds refinement while remaining timeless. The black profile creates contrast against the silk, making the artwork the focal point. The gold bead accents bring warmth and echo traditional framing styles, bridging heritage with modern craftsmanship. The Hudson frame’s balance of elegance and strength made it an ideal choice for this restoration.
Preserving with Museum Glass
To protect the silk, we used Tru Vue Museum Glass. This premium glazing provides 99% UV protection, preventing fading from sunlight or indoor lighting. Its anti-reflective clarity allows the viewer to appreciate every subtle detail in the silk, from the brushwork of the trees to the figures on the boat, without distracting glare. With Museum Glass, the artwork is not only safeguarded but also presented at its very best.
A Treasure Renewed
The completed piece honors both the history of the artwork and the patron’s deep appreciation for it. By replacing harmful materials with archival-quality solutions, we ensured that this silk treasure will be preserved for future generations. Now displayed with cream and red matting, the Hudson frame, and Museum Glass, the artwork feels both timeless and refreshed. At JW Frame Crafters, projects like these remind us of the importance of framing not just for beauty, but for preservation.
Display Specifications
- Frame – Larson Juhl Hudson Collection, Black with Gold Accents
- Matting – Cream mat with red liner to complement the Chop
- Glazing – Tru Vue Museum Glass, 99% UV protection