Object Mounting in Museums
Safe, secure, and reversible mounting is essential for the long-term care and effective display of museum objects. Whether you’re installing a temporary exhibition or designing a permanent gallery, the right mount protects your object, enhances interpretation, and supports preventive conservation.
Why Object Mounting Matters
Preservation: A well-designed mount provides physical support, reducing stress on fragile materials and helping to manage environmental risks like vibration, handling, and light exposure.
Security: Mounts help protect against theft, tampering, or accidental damage, especially in public or high-traffic areas.
Presentation: Mounts can be nearly invisible or purposefully designed to contribute to the display. Good mounting respects the object’s story, context, and significance.
Key Principles of Mounting
Reversibility: All mounting methods and materials should allow for safe removal without damaging the object.
Support: The mount must physically support the object in a stable and balanced position, especially if the object is heavy, oddly shaped, or fragile.
Materials: Only use inert, conservation-grade materials (such as acrylic, polyethylene foam, brass, or powder-coated steel).
Environmentally Sensitive: Avoid materials that off-gas or degrade over time, which could damage your collections.
Discreet or Interpreted: Decide whether the mount should be nearly invisible or act as a visible interpretive aid.
Common Types of Museum Mounts
Custom Metal Armatures: Ideal for three-dimensional objects; can be padded and painted to blend in.
Acrylic Supports: Transparent mounts for lighter objects or where visual minimisation is needed.
Book and Document Cradles: Gentle supports for rare books, maps, and manuscripts.
Straps and Ties: Nylon or cotton tape can hold flat or framed works safely in place.
Display Boards: Useful for textiles, coins, or small artefacts; should be conservation-quality and padded if necessary.
Tips for Getting Started
Start with a detailed assessment of the object: size, weight, materials, fragility, and any existing damage.
If you’re unsure, consult a conservator or a mount maker—especially for complex or high-value items.
Trial the mount with a replica or mock-up first when possible.
Document your mounting method, materials used, and installation process.
Sourcing Mounting Materials
We supply a range of conservation-grade materials ideal for mounting, including:
Bespoke Mounting Solutions
Every object tells a story, and sometimes a standard mount just isn’t enough. We offer a bespoke object mounting service, designed to meet the unique needs of your collection and exhibition space.
Whether you’re working with a delicate archaeological find, an industrial object, or a rare book, we can design and manufacture custom mounts that prioritise conservation, stability, and interpretive value. Our team works closely with you to understand:
The material, weight, and fragility of the object
The conditions and limitations of the display environment (e.g. lighting, case dimensions, humidity control)
The audience experience—including sightlines, accessibility, and educational goals
We create solutions in a range of conservation-grade materials, including powder-coated metal, acrylic, brass, foam, and more. Our mounts are always reversible, discreet where needed, and robust enough for long-term display.
Contact us to discuss a bespoke mounting solution for your next exhibition or display project. Whether you need one mount or a full gallery fit-out, we’re here to help.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is for general guidance only. While we strive to ensure accuracy, Darac accepts no responsibility for how this information is used. If in doubt, always consult a qualified professional before taking action.