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How to Preserve Your Artwork: Practical Care Advice

Preserving an artwork starts with a stable environment, careful handling and protection from direct sunlight, humidity, temperature changes and impact. Keep the invoice and certificate with the artwork records.

What can damage an artwork?

Light, humidity, temperature changes, dust, impact and unsuitable handling can damage an artwork. The risks depend on the medium, support, frame, location and condition of the work.

Avoid prolonged intense direct sunlight.
Keep humidity and temperature as stable as possible.
Keep artworks away from leaks, radiators and damp walls.
Do not touch painted surfaces unnecessarily.

Choose the right location

Choose a clean, stable and well-ventilated location away from direct heat and moisture. A suitable wall and hanging system reduce the risk of falls, vibration and accidental contact.

Before hanging, check the wall, fixing system, artwork weight and clearance around the work. For valuable or fragile pieces, ask a professional framer or conservator for advice.

Handle and transport artwork safely

Handle an artwork with clean, dry hands and protect it during every move. Use suitable packaging and avoid placing pressure on the surface, frame or corners.

If a parcel arrives damaged, write precise reservations on the delivery document, mention that it is received under reservation, and photograph the closed parcel before opening it. Transport insurance is included by Carré d’artistes, so the buyer does not bear that cost.

Keep your artwork records

Keep the invoice, certificate, photographs, condition information and delivery documents together. These records help with insurance, future resale and identification.

Read how to insure an artwork, how to understand an artwork signature and the certificate of authenticity guide.

Frequently asked questions

These answers cover the practical questions most readers ask before researching art. Use the related guides below to continue from the definition or market topic to a buying decision.

How should I protect a painting from sunlight?

Keep it away from prolonged intense direct sunlight and choose a location with stable light and temperature.

Can I clean an artwork myself?

Avoid applying products or water unless a qualified professional has confirmed that the technique and surface allow it.

What should I do if delivery packaging is damaged?

Photograph the closed parcel, make precise reservations on the delivery document and contact the seller before opening or moving the artwork.

Preservation begins with the place where the artwork lives

Choose a stable location away from direct heat, leaks, damp walls, strong humidity and prolonged intense sunlight. The hanging system should support the artwork securely and leave enough space to avoid accidental contact.

Handle the work with clean, dry hands and avoid touching painted or fragile surfaces. Do not apply water, cleaning products or household sprays unless a qualified professional has confirmed that the technique allows it.

Keep the invoice, certificate, photographs and delivery records together. If the artwork moves to another room or address, record its condition first. If a parcel arrives damaged, make precise reservations on the delivery document and photograph the closed parcel before opening it.

Artwork care

Live with your artwork for years

Buying or discovering art is also a way to support artists and bring an original perspective into an everyday space.

Explore unique and certified artworks or continue through the related guides below.

Carré d’artistes

Live with your artwork for years

Discover original works and practical care guidance. Founded in 2001, Carré d’artistes represents more than 500 artists and follows a fair-price policy designed to reward artists fairly while keeping art accessible.

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