When do you clean a photo? (With an example)

[conor912]

I would have it cleaned, but not restored. But I also agree with Mark that this piece should be in a frame, if for no other reason than to protect it. It's super cool, even without the auto. At the end of the day, it all depends on what it's worth to you to preserve it. What size is it?

[Jobu]

Thank you all for the feedback.

The photo is 21" x 8", so it is pretty big.

I generally like things to be original but think the smudges really detract from it and I worry that whatever that substance is will not be good for the photo or the autographs going forward. Beyond that I would stabilize it and leave the rest of the condition as it is - I like that it shows that it was owned by a kid on the team. I am a bit on the fence about even leaving the dirt for that same reason but just can't decide which is the correct way to go. If I find out that it will be $1200 to have it cleaned that will big a big factor too

[conor912]

If it were mine I would have the dirt and dark stain on the upper right removed. I agree that some dirt/wear on an item can add to it's coolness, but those are detracting from the piece, imo.

Having framed several things in comparable sizes, doing a nice archival/museum glass frame job will run you about $300. I can't speak to cleaning costs, but for some reason the $600-800 range is sticking in my head. Keep in mind not what you spent on it, but what it's worth to you. I have spent $400 framing something I spent 50 bucks on just because I loved it and wanted to enjoy/protect it indefinitely.

[t.tomc]

What a great piece Bryan. I would definitely have it archivally framed. Just having it stabilized so it won't bend/move will help keep the emulsion and paper base from cracking/deteriorating further. Getting any acidic surface particulates off would certainly be a good idea as well since that would help keep it from deteriorating further over time.

Thanks for sharing!