Best Way to Display and Protect a Photograph?

[Stahlhelm]

Hello everyone:

I admit that this thread was spawned from a recent discussion on what to do with period photos in period-assembled photo albums. As a result of that thread, I began thinking more seriously about exactly what I should do with a special photo which I have in my own collection.

I have an original, period-printed photograph of Adolf Hitler with a couple of high-ranking generals. I would like to know how I can protect this photo within some archival material, also in such a way that it is easily-observed from the front and back. There's an interesting, original stamp and writing on the back which add to its authenticity and appeal. So, I would like to be able to safely show and protect it in such a way that everything can be seen, without the need for anyone to actually handle the photograph.

My first thought was, of course, the readily-available mylar sleeves which photos can be slid in and out of. However, I just want to check my thinking and ask what others are doing and what others consider best. I'm sure this is an issue which plenty of other collectors have to consider. Maybe there's something better I just haven't found yet.

Thanks in advance to all who may respond.

Chris

[Paul R.]

Chris. Two words acidfree mount. Since photo preservation was a minor study. If you want to display the photo. It's fairly simple. Use a alum, or high density acrylic frame and a acidfree mat board. Cover the image with a uv polycarbonite glass, or a uv glass. For the writing on the back if you want to show that as well. Photo the writing. Make a good copy of that writing and mount that below the print(either a photo image, or a good copier image). The back of the mount use another acidfree board to hold it all together.
If you are not interested in frame display use a mylar sleeve. You may have to custom make one. below is a image showing how to custom make one. Most conservation supply companies sell large mylar sheets 32x48 in. Use a acidfree board to keep the photos from flopping around. The whole mylar sleeve is sealed with acidfree tape. Hope this helps Paul

[Stahlhelm]

Paul:

Yes, that is 100% helpful and exactly what I needed to know. I think I'll try the mylar sleeve option for now.

Thanks a bunch!

Chris

[BrianK]

Watch out for light

There is one other important thing to consider. When you display any paper items, be sure to keep them away as much as possible from light, esp. ultra-violet & direct sunlight. Nothing will age a paper item more than when direct sunlight falls on it daily.

[Stahlhelm]

Brian:

Thanks for the extra info about the light. I will certainly be careful about that as well.

Chris