ALTERNATIVE METHODS OF MOUNTING PARCHMENT FOR FRAMING AND EXHIBITION

Abstract

Summary This article examines two methods of mounting single sheets of parchment for both permanent and temporary display where other well-established methods such as the thread matt cannot be used, and which avoids the risks associated with traditional inflexible mounting methods. The first method described is the reverse thread matt in which the threads used to secure the parchment are taken around the back of a specially designed support-board, which allows such items to remain in existing frames where this is necessary and yet benefit from the advantages of the conventional thread matt. The second method is designed to hold larger sheets of parchment to rigid boards with straps of Japanese long-fibre tissue for framing or display, allowing a certain amount of movement, but providing a necessary safe breaking point should the parchment shrink on exposure to excessively dry conditions. The article also describes how sheets of parchment mounted by either method may be framed.