Kia ora all,
I have a large number of framed official photographs taken of previous local authority elected members.
The frames are, in most cases, cheap stationary shop bought types. However the photographs have been framed with non-archival card mat which has written on them the accompanying names and titles. Very useful data which of course will be retained with the photograph.
I have been pondering removing the photographs from the frames for space saving, better ability to digitise, and store in more archive friendly enclosures. As mentioned above, the mat will be retained with the photographs. Any suggestions for or against removing such items from there current enclosures that I may have overlooked?
Look forward to your expert opinions. Thank you.
Nga mihi - Carleen
Replies
Kia ora Carleen,
At Archives NZ Wellington we are processing a large transfer of framed photographs from the NZ Symphony Orchestra. A wonderful collection. We are taking them out of their frames and noting any information to be kept with the photograph itself for listing. We have approached this in a collection management and preservation angle, less storage, and removing acidic card mounts. We haven't retained the mat unless really necessary, the odd one we kept framed and one we made an archival box as it was framed including the conductor's baton. I also consider that it is worthwhile to support future accessibility and possible digitisation. But it has become a large task and more time consuming than expected (e.g. Photographs stuck to card backing). Ideal work for volunteers if that is possible.
All the best
Nga mihi nui
David
Thanks very much for your replies. A take away point from each has been found to be most useful.
Your time and expertise has been greatly appreciated.
Carleen
Hi Carleen
At Library and Archives Canada, we always remove the photographs from the frames for preservation,space and handling issues. If the mats are non-archival they could ultimately damage the photographs, so as you say, I would definitely recommend removing the photographs from the mats, and transferring the information into your database/finding aid. We normally wouldn't retain the mats, unless perhaps there is an original signature on them or they really form an integral pair - although this doesn't seem to be the case. One other issue to consider might be how the photographs were adhered/attached to either the mat card or the backboard - you would want to make sure that if they are glued or tape hinged, a conservator (if feasible) would detach them and remove the glue before they are permanently stored.
Jill
Carleen,
From a preservation perspective, either is fine. If storage space is an issue, taking the items out of their frames and storing them in Solander boxes or map/plan drawers is a good option.
But if you can't provide them with protection once they are out of their frames, leave them in place. The frames will provide some physical protection and also buffer against changes in temp and RH.
Cheryl Jackson
Photo Conservator
Kia ora Carleen,
It is our institutional practice to de-frame photographs also; if you retain the information both physically and digitally this should be fine. We usually also photograph the item in the frame for our own records. Just make sure the condition is such that you don't risk the photographic surface adhering to glass and risk surface loss of the photograph. You can usually identify this as a potential issue with a visual inspection.We keep some historic frames as parts in another location, but it doesn't sound as though you'd need to do that. It makes total sense to de-frame for storage in most cases.
Best,
Emma