What quality of frame must I choose for this investment painting?
The primary function of the frame is to protect the artwork. Therefore the quality of the framing materials is important. Framing can be expensive, however if this is a family heirloom, a painting with personal meaning, or an investment piece, the cost of framing will be well the expense if you choose a frame that will protect the painting.
Any surface that comes in contact with the painting in any way, should be acid free. The P.H. level of the matt board should be between 7.2 and 7.8. Special matboards are made for oil paintings and generally are used with good quality frames and backing where needed. Never back a painting with brown paper. The acid in close proximity to the canvas will destroy the painting!
Consider the aesthetic quality of the frame you choose. The width and style of the frame should accentuate the painting. A wide frame on a small painting will overwhelm the painting and take away from it's beauty. The eye will be drawn away from the painting to the frame. In the same way, a narrow frame will not benefit a large painting. A balance must be achieved between matt size and image size in order to have a perfectly framed art piece. Choose a matt colour that will enhance the artwork. This will allow the painting to fit in to any décor.
Hanging your artwork to its best advantage will make it look even more beautiful. Large paintings are at home on a large expanse of wall. Hang smaller paintings at eye level. Hanging the painting over a furniture piece, such as a sofa will "ground" the painting to the room, such that it blends with the aesthetics of the room.
An oil painting should be thought of a living creation. Care for your painting and it will grace your living space with beauty and bring you joy, as it increases in value over the years.
