Conservation techniques are crucial when framing something like this indenture from the eighteenth century and archival standard materials have been used throughout.

This article is 'float' mounted and rests loosely on linen covered board allowing the viewer to appreciate the document in its entire and original form, including the decorative scalloped edge at the top plus all the creases and folds of time. The depth of the box frame allows for a discreet internal slip to be inserted, holding the glass away from the surface of the paper.

As paper is hygroscopic and therefore continues to expand and contract as it absorbs and releases moisture in the atmosphere, such framing methods are crucial to allow for natural movement in paper.

This frame has been finished in brushed red gesso, which, though waxed and polished, has been left deliberately rough and textural and tones perfectly with the seal.