Made to last centuries
How to care for a hand-painted icon
An egg tempera icon protected by olifa can last for centuries, as the ancient icons kept in museums show. A few precautions are enough to protect it from its real enemies: humidity, temperature swings, direct sunlight and smoke.
Where to place it
- Away from direct sunlight, which alters colours over time.
- Away from radiators, fireplaces, stoves and air-conditioning vents.
- Preferably on an inner, dry wall with stable humidity (roughly 45% to 60%).
- Not in bathrooms or kitchens, where steam and grease settle on the surface.
Candles and votive lamps
A lamp burning before the icon is a beautiful tradition. Keep it far enough away that heat and smoke do not reach the surface: over time soot darkens the olifa. A good quality oil lamp produces less smoke than a candle.
Cleaning
- Dust with a soft, dry brush or a cotton cloth.
- Never use water, alcohol, detergents, furniture polish or damp cloths.
- Do not touch the painted surface or the gold with your fingers: skin oils leave marks.
- For any damage or stubborn dirt, contact the iconographer or a conservator.
Transport and shipping
Handle the panel by its edges. For moving or shipping, wrap it in acid-free paper, protect the corners and pack it rigidly. On request Concetta Basile can provide a case or frame with anti-reflective glass, useful in busy spaces.
Frequently asked questions
Can an icon hang in a seaside home?
Yes, avoiding walls exposed to damp and direct light. In very humid settings a closed case offers extra protection.
How often should the olifa be renewed?
Under normal conditions it does not need renewing: olifa protects the icon for decades. Any intervention should always be entrusted to an iconographer or conservator.