The mounting / backing of a poster on canvas, the conservation treatment of choice
Mounting, or backing, is a technique that preserves the poster with the help of a protective support.
Thanks to this process, the poster regains the brilliance of its original colours, the tensions are removed and the folds are flattened. The poster also becomes resistant to humidity and temperature variations.
The poster is thus ready to be perfectly framed.
Our unique mounting / backing technique
The wet poster is applied with a starch solution to a sheet of acid-free Canson paper and then lined with an organic cotton canvas.
Depending on the size, the type of paper and the printing technique, a drying time of 1 to 3 weeks is necessary away from dust.
Inspired by "Mizubari" and “Karibari”, two traditional Japanese techniques of mounting / backing by friction and drying, we have developed a unique process since 1993, which allows the posters to dry slowly.
The slow drying of both sides of the paper reduces tension by preserving the paper fibres, flattens creases and tears, and reduces relief and surface damage. It also improves the texture and three-dimensional quality of the paper. This technique is particularly suitable for vintage and acidic papers and for damaged, folded or creased papers.
Our canvas are all made of natural and PH neutral materials which guarantee the stability of the paper's acidity.
Fully reversible process
Our conservation and restoration techniques for vintage posters and paper respect the materials and the works.
Our know-how, the result of the evolution of a 150 year old technique, is appreciated by collectors and museums all over the world.
This process ensures that our posters are flat and can be perfectly framed.
The choice of the mounting / backing technique depends on the chemical and mechanical properties of the paper, the printing process used and the condition of the poster.
Depending on these criteria, we recommend one of the following options:
Mounting / backing with acid-free "Canson" paper on organic cotton canvas
Mounting / backing on organic cotton canvas with Canson paper is the most resistant paper conservation technique.
The poster is first placed on a sheet of Canson paper. This paper has the property of preserving the poster at a neutral PH and without acidity, which stabilises the colours and protects against oxidation (yellowing of the paper).
The paper is very fine-grained and perfectly smooth, giving the poster a flat surface.
This sheet of Canson paper and the poster are then lined with a 100% organic cotton canvas.
A canvas margin of 3 cm (1 inch) is kept around the poster to protect it during handling.
A mounted / backed poster can be rolled up and slipped into a tube for safe shipping or storage.
Mounting / backing on "Bolloré" Japan paper
For the Bolloré Japan paper mounting / backing, we use a very thin, flexible, acid-free, high-quality cellulose sheet.
This process can only be applied if the poster is not larger than the Swiss format (90x128cm) and is in very good condition, not folded.
This very light and non-invasive technique is appreciated by some collectors and museums in Switzerland and Germany.
With this technique, the Japanese paper is cut flush with the edge of the poster.
It can be framed as is.
Although the poster retains its lightness and specific flexibility, it remains fragile when handled.
Why mounting / backing ?
An unmounted / non-backed poster, even in perfect condition, is very fragile and can be damaged quickly when handled. In addition to strengthening it and stopping tears, mounting / backing deacidifies the paper, stabilises the poster and allows it to be restored if necessary.
Flexible and reversible, mounting / backing preserves the life and specificity of a work of art on paper while allowing a high level of framing.
Our natural materials and non-invasive, reversible techniques meet the modern rules of art restoration.
An unmounted / non-backed poster can not only be damaged by handling, but also, when framed, can form unsightly waves. Tensions in the frame of an unmounted / non-backed poster due to temperature and humidity variations are not damage, but reduce the visibility of the artwork.
These ripples or folds detract from the artistic qualities of the framed poster by creating unwanted reflections behind the glass.
Mounting / backing on rigid board, cardboard, wood or hot-melt gluing on aluminium are not recommended for a valuable vintage poster. These materials are often very acidic and the gluing is irreversible. The value of the work is therefore greatly diminished.
In our catalogue, we always specify whether the price of the mounting / backing is included or not.
If the mounting / backing is not included, you have the choice to order it by e-mail.
A quote and delivery time will be sent to you on request. Surcharge of 100.- to 400.- Swiss francs depending on the format.devis et un délai vous sera communiqué à votre demande.
(This offer applies only to posters sold by Galerie 1 2 3. For other posters, see prices below).