Ink Stamp on Press Photos

[David R]

I have some old press photos that have a big red ink stamp on the front that says "FILE COPY". Does anyone have any idea how I might remove the red ink stamp without ruining the photos. These are from the 30s/40s.

David R

[thekingofclout]

I can speak from experience as I tried to take a damp cloth to a red "file photo" stamp on the front of this photo...

baberuthbatting.jpg

Although I did remove a good deal of ink the photo started to wrinkle. After telling two friends who are experts in the field, they convinced me to only view my photos and leave all other things to a professional.

The trouble is, there aren't that many photo conservators around, and I live in L.A. for God's sake.

My advice would be to contact fellow board member Dr David Cycleback and he should be able to steer you in the right direction.

Sincerely, Jimmy

[David R]

Thanks Jimmy. Did you just use water?

[thekingofclout]

Just water and a clean towel.

[Ladder7]

Im surprised water was effective at removing ink. Im wondering if it simply removed the emulsion which the ink was applied to. Photo restoration has got dollar signs written all over it. I have several with ink applied that will have to remain. Perhaps for our next generation or two, these low value rarities will be worth the expense. Ink or not, that's a great photo.