Art Care: Original Works Including Oil Paintings
Placement & Environment
Light
- Display in a location with indirect natural light or soft, UV-filtered artificial lighting.
- Avoid prolonged direct sunlight or intense halogen bulbs, which can lead to fading, cracking, or yellowing of paint and varnish.
- Use museum-quality, UV-protective glazing or low-reflective glass for framed works on paper or sensitive media.
Humidity & Temperature
- Maintain a stable climate with a temperature range of 18°C–22°C and humidity around 45–55%.
- Avoid extremes - fluctuations can cause canvas to expand and contract, leading to warping, flaking, or pigment damage.
- Do not hang above active radiators, fireplaces, or in damp areas such as bathrooms or kitchens.
Positioning
- Ensure your artwork is securely mounted using archival, non-acidic materials and museum-grade hardware.
- Keep away from areas of heavy traffic or where it may be touched, brushed, or knocked. For oil paintings, never lean unframed pieces directly against walls or surfaces.
Cleaning & Handling
Dusting
- Dust gently with a soft, natural-hair brush or a clean, dry microfiber cloth. Avoid feather dusters or cloths that may snag impasto texture or lift pigment.
- Do not use household cleaning sprays, polishes, or water under any circumstances.
Handling
- Always handle artworks with clean cotton gloves or freshly washed hands. Oils from skin can transfer to canvas, causing long-term damage.
- If transporting, ensure the piece is fully protected with acid-free tissue, corner protectors, and rigid support. Always carry artwork upright, not flat.
Framed Works
- For framed paintings, occasionally check for signs of warping, loose mounts, or fading - especially if framed under glass.
- Ensure frames remain structurally sound and free from dust accumulation or insect ingress.
Oil Paintings: Special Considerations
- Oil paintings may take 6–12 months to fully cure after completion. Avoid framing under glass during this period unless advised otherwise by the artist.
- If varnished, the varnish will protect the work against dust and UV - but never attempt to clean or re-varnish a painting without the guidance of a conservator.
Storage & Transit
- Store in a vertical, upright position, ideally in a cool, dry, dark environment with protective wrap and rigid spacers between pieces.
- Avoid attic or basement storage where temperature and moisture can vary dramatically.
- For significant works, consider professional, climate-controlled art storage facilities.
Fragrance Care: Eau de Parfum & Eau de Toilette
Storage & Preservation
- Keep your fragrance in a cool, dark place, ideally away from direct sunlight and temperature fluctuations. Humidity and heat can degrade both aroma and colour.
- If you’re cellaring a rare or seasonal scent, store it in its original box (or inside a simple pouch or plastic bag) to shield it from light. For optimal longevity, refrigeration is acceptable - just maintain a consistent environment and avoid moisture build-up.
Leather Care
Daily Care & Cleaning
- Gently wipe dust and light dirt from your leather with a soft, dry cotton cloth.
- Never use harsh solvents or chemicals that might strip the finish; instead, opt for leather balm for nourishing clean-ups.
Protection from Moisture & Heat
- Leather is naturally porous - keep it safe from direct contact with water. If it gets damp, pat dry with a soft cloth and allow it to air-dry in a cool, well-ventilated space - never use radiators or hair dryers.
- Avoid direct sunlight or prolonged exposure to heat, as this can cause fading, loss of oils, or tightness in the hide.
Conditioning & Nourishing
- Every 2–4 months (or more frequently in dry climates or during active seasons), nourish your leather with a small amount of leather balm, applied in circular motions using a soft cloth.
- Let the balm absorb overnight, then gently buff to restore a subtle sheen.
Stain & Abrasion Management
- For minor scuffs or surface marks, a light application of balm can often restore gently.
- More significant stains or colour loss, particularly on vegetable-tanned leather, should be treated with professional-grade products or by a specialist.
Storage & Handling
- Store in a dust bag, in a cool, dry place, away from sunlight and humidity.
- Avoid over-stuffing or folding - fill your bag with soft tissue to maintain shape during longer storage.
- For wallets and card holders, storing flat is recommended to preserve their structure.
Gentle Handling & Longevity
- Treat edges, seams, and hardware mindfully - avoid excessive pressure, stretching, or abrasive surfaces.
Wines and Spirits Care
Wine Storage & Cellaring
Whether you are building a private cellar or storing a single case, optimal conditions are key to the longevity of fine wines.
- Temperature: Maintain a stable environment between 10°C and 13°C (50°F–55°F). Avoid temperature fluctuations.
- Humidity: Ideal humidity is 65–75% to prevent corks from drying and oxidising the wine. Excessive dryness or dampness can damage labels and seals.
- Light: Wines should be stored in complete darkness or very low light. UV rays degrade wine and fade labels - particularly detrimental to Champagne, rosé, and white wines.
- Position: Store bottles horizontally, especially those sealed with natural cork, to keep the cork moist and airtight.
- Vibration & Movement: Wines should rest undisturbed. Avoid storing near appliances, heating systems, or areas prone to movement.
- Ventilation: A clean, odour-free environment is essential. Strong smells - from paint, cleaning products, or wood treatments - can seep through corks over time.
For clients collecting wines of significant provenance or value, we recommend a professional-grade, climate-controlled cellar or long-term storage with a bonded fine wine warehouse.
Spirit Storage: Whisky, Cognac & Other Distillates
Spirits are more resilient than wine, but still benefit from proper care - particularly when aging bottles for collection or gifting.
- Upright Storage: Always store spirits vertically, as prolonged contact with corks can degrade both the spirit and closure.
- Temperature: Maintain a cool, stable temperature, ideally below 20°C (68°F). Avoid fluctuations and extremes.
- Light: Direct sunlight and strong artificial light can fade labels and alter flavour compounds over time - store in a dark cupboard or display case.
- Seal Integrity: Check wax seals and corks periodically. For long-term storage, consider additional humidity control if cork-sealed.
- Display Bottles: If showcasing spirits, rotate occasionally and avoid placing them near windows, radiators, or hot lighting.
Pearl Care
Wear with Intention
Pearls benefit from the natural oils in your skin - wear them often, but with care.
- Always put on pearl jewellery after applying perfume, hair products, sunscreen, or makeup.
- Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals, including household cleaning agents and chlorine.
Last On, First Off
Pearls should be the final touch when dressing and the first to be removed when undressing. This prevents damage from accidental contact with zippers, buckles, or metal fasteners.
Let Them Breathe
Store pearls in a soft pouch or lined jewellery box - not in plastic or airtight containers. Pearls require a touch of ambient moisture; overly dry environments may cause cracking or dullness.
Cleaning Pearls
- Wipe gently with a soft, damp cloth after wearing to remove any oils or residue.
- For occasional deeper cleaning, use lukewarm water and a mild, non-detergent soap, wiping carefully with a soft cloth. Rinse and dry flat.
- Never soak pearls, steam-clean, or use ultrasonic cleaners - this can damage their nacre (the lustrous outer layer).
Stringing & Restringing
- If your pearls are strung, check for signs of fraying or stretching in the silk thread.
- For pieces worn regularly, we recommend professional restringing every 1–2 years, with knots between each pearl to prevent abrasion and loss.
Travel Considerations
- Carry pearls in a dedicated pouch or soft case, separate from other jewellery to avoid scratching.
- Avoid extreme temperature changes or prolonged direct sunlight exposure.
Candle Care
Placement & Environment
Light
- Display in a location with indirect natural light or soft, UV-filtered artificial lighting.
- Avoid prolonged direct sunlight or intense halogen bulbs, which can lead to fading, cracking, or yellowing of paint and varnish.
- Use museum-quality, UV-protective glazing or low-reflective glass for framed works on paper or sensitive media.
Humidity & Temperature
- Maintain a stable climate with a temperature range of 18°C–22°C and humidity around 45–55%.
- Avoid extremes - fluctuations can cause canvas to expand and contract, leading to warping, flaking, or pigment damage.
- Do not hang above active radiators, fireplaces, or in damp areas such as bathrooms or kitchens.
Positioning
- Ensure your artwork is securely mounted using archival, non-acidic materials and museum-grade hardware.
- Keep away from areas of heavy traffic or where it may be touched, brushed, or knocked. For oil paintings, never lean unframed pieces directly against walls or surfaces.
Cleaning & Handling
Dusting
- Dust gently with a soft, natural-hair brush or a clean, dry microfiber cloth. Avoid feather dusters or cloths that may snag impasto texture or lift pigment.
- Do not use household cleaning sprays, polishes, or water under any circumstances.
Handling
- Always handle artworks with clean cotton gloves or freshly washed hands. Oils from skin can transfer to canvas, causing long-term damage.
- If transporting, ensure the piece is fully protected with acid-free tissue, corner protectors, and rigid support. Always carry artwork upright, not flat.
Framed Works
- For framed paintings, occasionally check for signs of warping, loose mounts, or fading - especially if framed under glass.
- Ensure frames remain structurally sound and free from dust accumulation or insect ingress.
Oil Paintings: Special Considerations
- Oil paintings may take 6–12 months to fully cure after completion. Avoid framing under glass during this period unless advised otherwise by the artist.
- If varnished, the varnish will protect the work against dust and UV - but never attempt to clean or re-varnish a painting without the guidance of a conservator.
Storage & Transit
- Store in a vertical, upright position, ideally in a cool, dry, dark environment with protective wrap and rigid spacers between pieces.
- Avoid attic or basement storage where temperature and moisture can vary dramatically.
- For significant works, consider professional, climate-controlled art storage facilities.