Framing Chinese paintings is an art in itself, blending preservation techniques with respectful presentation. These works, often created on delicate Xuan paper, require thoughtful treatment to protect their longevity and honour their cultural value. At TFG Frames Gallery's Kuala Lumpur framing studio, we understand that the right frame doesn't just preserve—it elevates.
Why Framing Chinese Art Is a Delicate Craft
Preservation focused Chinese Painting and Calligraphy framing by Certified Picture Framer® in Kuala Lumpur
What Is Xuanzhi? The “Rice Paper” of Chinese Art
Traditional Chinese ink paintings and calligraphy works are typically done on Xuanzhi (宣纸) — a fine paper known in English as “rice paper,” though it's made from plant fibers like mulberry and not actual rice. Xuanzhi is highly absorbent, allowing brushstrokes to flow beautifully — but also making it prone to wrinkling or damage if not treated properly.
The Art of Mounting (装裱):
A Crucial First Step
Before framing, artworks on rice paper must be mounted by hand to flatten wrinkles and reinforce the delicate paper. This is done using specialized pastes and backing sheets, followed by drying and smoothing — a time-tested process known as biǎohuà (裱画).
At TFG Frames Gallery, our mounting specialists are trained in both conservation practices and traditional Chinese mounting. We handle each piece with precision, ensuring the artwork is flat, clean, and ready for framing — while maintaining its structural integrity.
Elegant Silk Borders: Tradition Meets Presentation
We offer a curated selection of traditional silk brocade borders — known as mounting silk or by their weaves, juàn (絹) and líng (綾). Chosen to complement the brushwork, seal placement, and overall composition, these silks bring a refined elegance reminiscent of hanging scrolls while adapting beautifully to contemporary display styles.
Custom Framing for Chinese Paintings, Calligraphy, and Traditional Art Forms
Our frames are thoughtfully chosen to highlight the unique beauty of each piece — whether it’s a minimalist wood frame, floating mount, or glazed box frame for scroll fragments. For those who seek lasting protection, we provide conservation-grade materials like acid-free backing and UV-protective glazing to preserve your artwork’s elegance over time.
Each project includes a consultation on framing layout, silk tone, matting, and glazing — all tailored to suit the paper type, brush technique, and ink properties.
We offer something most frame shops don’t: an understanding of Chinese artistic heritage, combined with museum-level preservation framing. Whether you’re framing a gifted scroll, a collector’s piece, or your own artistic work, we ensure your artwork remains visually stunning and protected for generations.
