Can an antique print be devalued?

Question

I recently bought an antique print in an older frame with nails holding the picture in on the back. The mat has stains or light brown spots on it. (because of not being acid free or age???) Would it be better to leave it like it is or to put it in a new frame with an acid free mat? Would it devalue the print if I put it in a new frame and mat? or would it be more valuable if I left it as it is? I would appreciate your advice. Thank you.

Answer 1

Good question. Sometimes it's better to keep everything in its old frame. But.... did you buy the print so that you can enjoy it or simply that it might increase in value?

I feel that the print is more important than the mat and frame. I would have it reframed using a clean acid free mat and simple frame. You could always keep the old mat and frame if you want to sell it in this condition in the future.

Nick