Preservation and display of old fragile sturmfahne

[The Other Brian]

I was lucky enough to acquire a very early SA sturmfahne with 5 unit patches and a bloody face print on one corner. It was poorly stored in a veterans' hall in South Africa for decades and is dry, a bit sun bleached and reeking of stale tobacco smoke.

I want to display it in my man cave but want to ensure it is preserved.

I live in Vancouver and am looking for someone to frame it. Any ideas?

Thanks,

Brian

[keifer kahn]

Hi Brian,

Do not clean it.
Also a dehumidifier. (50% humidity), to stabilize the environment.

If you have the room, I would make up a "Flat frame".

Basically a wooden base(Pine) with an acid free mattboard base for the
flag to lay on. Also a top frame with enough edge height to provide
depth so the glass does not sit directly on the flag.

This requires the flag not to hang and is self supporting. Weakened
fabric can tear and stretch. You could get it framed conventionally
but flags are generally stretched when mounted and if the fabric is
compromised it could cause damage issues.

The only issue is the frame sits like a table and will take up room.

regards KK