How to clean an old etching or lithograph??

Question

I have 2 JF Raffaelli etchings from the late 1800 but the paper is yellow I would like to know how to clean the paper and make it whiter ...anybody knows? Thank you

Answer 1

Unfortunately, there's no way to reverse the yellowing on an old print, especially if it's caused by acid deterioration (and judging by the age, it probably is - that's when they began using highly acidic tree pulp for paper.)

You can stop it from getting worse by having it framed in acid-free materials, ask them to use an off-white mat so the yellow isn't so obvious. It sounds like they're worth preserving.

If the yellowing is caused by dirt, you may be able to remove some of the staining with a gum eraser (the kind that crumbles like bread). Try on a corner where it doesn't show. But I would not go near the image, the ink may rub off.

good luck -

Answer 2

Take it to a professional! Anything you try yourself is likely to end up in disaster. When I needed some art restored, I called my local art mu seam and got excellent recommendations.

I should also warn you, there is a good chance it's yellow for life. I've worked in Library conservation years ago and don't recall any method that would whiten the paper without destroying the art.

Good luck, it sounds like you've got some cool stuff.

Answer 3

Have it done by a professional!!!