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Framing Tribal Objects.
Tribal objects such as amulets, boomerangs & tools, make great framed works. Different things need to be framed differently depending on their size, weight & strength.
- Small objects such as beads or arrow heads an be framed easily within most frames & securely attached to the backing with the minimum of fuss by fishing line, clasps or glue. Larger objects such as plates or shields need specialised fittings or gluing to ensure they stay where they are supposed to be. It also follows that the bigger the overall frame is , the larger the frame profile should be, to ensure structural stability.
- In terms of weight, the framing only really gets affected when what you’re having done is heavy. Make sure that the framer is confident of the frames ability to both hold itself together, and to hold the object steady. We have had the experience of framing a 120kg+ granite tablet that needed a great deal of attention paid to securing it to the backing, and securing the frame itself. We had a sturdy metal framework made, that sat within the frame, and was used as the core to be hung off. The frame & tablet were then secured independently to this skeleton.
- The strength of the object is primarily important when looking at what angle your framer will come at it from in terms of attachment. For instance our granite tablet was not only heavy, it was strong. This meant we could use the minimum number of fixing points & be sure it wouldn’t crumble under its own weight. We have also framed things like very old coobas (African grass skirts) that have been in such bad condition we weren’t sure if they could be framed at all. In this instance they had to be very pain stakingly sewn to a suitable backing, so that they remained intact.
What ever you are having framed is obviously of some importance to you, and possibly more than your framer. Don’t expect your framer to be up on the cultural nuances of the group that made whatever your getting done. Please research yourself the appropriateness of getting your object framed at all. For instance is it acceptable for it to be seen by both sexes? Did it come from a responsible source? Is the object even allowed to be owned & therefore allowed to be framed?
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