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An archival environment for fine prints, certainly antiquarian prints, is one in which the materials used to store or display the work are inert, i.e., no surfaces will touch the paper of the print that have a high acid content, or even one with excessive alkali.
Many framers will use 'conservation materials' to frame works of art. Using acid free materials on which to lay the art within the framing treamtent prevents foxing (deterioration) and the leeching of the acids into the artwork itself.
If you must unframe a work of art for any reason, and want to keep it safe, remove it from the frame in its mats, carefully inspect to determine in what manner the art has been attached to the matting. Normally a framer will use a linen, acid free tape to adhere the print to the back of the mat window, or in the case of 'floating' these same tapes will be used as hinges to hang the art within a matted window.
Do not attempt to remove these tapes. Using a razor blade, carefully cut the tape at the top of the print, leaving that part of tape that is affixed ON THE PRINT. Better the print have a piece of linen tape attached to it, than torn paper.
Roll IN A TUBE, or lay flat in an acid free material purchased from any art supply store, i.e.,., fomecore, rag board, etc. Even saran wrap is better than nothing, since it is inert. Store flat in a temperature controlled environment.
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