My oil paintings are either painted on the finest Belgian portrait linen in the world, primed with white lead or on gessoed panel. Usually I frame them behind glass as this affords the maximum protection from the atmosphere, also from human interference. After 500 years, a painting behind glass is perfect so this method speaks for itself.
When a painting leaves me, it is in peak condition. In order to maintain this, certain rules must be adhered to. Never hang a painting above heat, especially an open fire. This will completely destroy the paint layers and cause cracking. A painting should not be exposed to extremes of temperature. This will relax the linen, which will wrinkle. Damp, cold conditions will infiltrate the paint layers, thus damaging the entire structure. A slightly warm comfortable room is suitable: or cool but not cold. Never hang a painting in direct sunlight.
A painting without glass is more difficult to care for. The surface should never be touched by hand or cleaned with anything other than a feather duster, specifically kept for the purpose. A panel painting is tougher but it still needs the same consideration. The advantage being, transporting is safer and it does not wrinkle.
If due care is taken, a painting will give pleasure to future generations for hundreds of years. What a legacy!
