Charcoal portraits are delicate and require proper care to preserve their beauty and longevity. The following tips will help you maintain your charcoal portraits and keep them in excellent condition for years to come.

1. Proper Framing

Framing is crucial for protecting your charcoal portrait from dust, smudges, and environmental damage. Choose a high-quality frame with a glass or acrylic cover to shield the artwork.

• Use UV-Protective Glass: UV-protective glass helps prevent fading and discoloration caused by sunlight.
• Matting: Use a mat to keep the glass from directly touching the charcoal surface, preventing smudges and condensation.
• Sealed Backing: Ensure the frame has a sealed backing to keep out dust and insects.

2. Handling with Care

Charcoal drawings are particularly susceptible to smudging. Always handle your charcoal portrait with clean hands or wear cotton gloves to avoid transferring oils and dirt onto the artwork.

• Avoid Touching the Surface: Never touch the charcoal surface directly. Hold the portrait by its edges or frame.
• Use Two Hands: When moving the portrait, use both hands to provide even support and avoid bending or warping.

3. Displaying Properly

The location where you display your charcoal portrait can significantly impact its preservation.

• Avoid Direct Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause the charcoal to fade. Display the portrait in a location with indirect lighting.
• Control Humidity: High humidity can cause the paper to warp and the charcoal to smudge. Maintain a stable environment with moderate humidity levels (around 40-60%).
• Avoid Heat Sources: Keep the portrait away from heat sources like radiators or fireplaces, which can cause the paper to dry out and become brittle.

4. Cleaning and Dusting

Regular cleaning and dusting will help maintain the appearance of your charcoal portrait.

• Dusting: Gently dust the frame and glass cover with a soft, dry cloth or feather duster. Avoid using water or cleaning solutions.
• Cleaning the Glass: If the glass needs cleaning, use a glass cleaner sparingly and spray it onto a cloth, not directly onto the glass. This prevents cleaner from seeping under the frame and damaging the artwork.

5. Storing Properly

If you need to store your charcoal portrait, follow these guidelines to ensure its protection.

• Use Archival Materials: Store the portrait in acid-free, archival-quality materials to prevent deterioration.
• Flat Storage: Store the portrait flat to avoid bending or warping. Place it in a sturdy, flat box with a protective cover.
• Climate Control: Store the portrait in a climate-controlled environment to avoid fluctuations in temperature and humidity.

6. Fixative Application

Applying a fixative spray can help protect the charcoal from smudging. However, this should be done with caution.

• Professional Application: Consider having a professional apply the fixative to avoid potential damage.
• Test First: If you decide to apply fixative yourself, test it on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t alter the appearance of the charcoal.
• Use Sparingly: Apply the fixative sparingly and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

Conclusion

Proper care and maintenance are essential for preserving the beauty and integrity of charcoal portraits. By following these tips on framing, handling, displaying, cleaning, storing, and applying fixative, you can ensure that your charcoal portrait remains in excellent condition for years to come. With the right care, your artwork will continue to be a cherished and enduring piece of your collection.