Handling unframed items
Handle photographs by the edges with clean, dry hands or nitrile gloves. Skin oils leave marks that develop slowly and cannot be removed. Support large items with a rigid board when moving them rather than letting them flex.
Never clean the signature
No solvent, eraser, wipe or household cleaner should ever go near ink. Even water can lift felt-tip and dissolve dye. Surface marks on a signed area should be left alone or referred to a paper conservator.
Cleaning the frame safely
Spray cleaner onto a cloth, never directly onto the frame — liquid running down the glazing can wick under the edge and reach the mount. Use a barely damp microfibre cloth on the glass and a dry one on the moulding.
Signed shirts
Never wash, dry clean or steam a signed shirt. Laundering removes the signature completely and destroys the value of the piece.
Need a straight answer on a specific piece?
Send photographs and we'll give you an honest opinion — whether you're buying, selling or simply curious. You can also visit us at 87 Princes Street, Southend-on-Sea, Tuesday to Saturday, 10am–4pm.