Non-mounted

Referring to something that is not fixed or displayed on a mount, frame, or support. This term often applies to photographs, artwork, maps, or other materials that would typically be secured for presentation or preservation. Being 'non-mounted' suggests a lack of formal arrangement or a state of being unattached, loose, or potentially vulnerable to damage. It implies that the subject is in its raw, unprocessed form, or presented in a way that does not include any supporting materials. Non-mounting is frequently seen where economy of space is an important factor, such as in storage, where the objects can be easily filed away. Further, non-mounting can also refer to the physical state of an item, where materials may or may not be connected or held in place.

Non-mounted meaning with examples

• The historian carefully examined the collection of non-mounted historical documents. These fragile papers, lacking the stability of a backing or frame, had survived for centuries. She carefully documented their condition, ensuring their safety before archiving them. The delicate, unbound documents represented an invaluable resource for her research, preserving the rich historical tapestry of an era.
• The artist preferred to display her watercolors in a non-mounted format for a gallery exhibition. This approach allowed the delicate colors to blend and the image to shift based on the viewer's perception. She felt the raw presentation gave the audience a pure experience. It was her choice of medium to connect with the viewers' experience of the image.
• The photographer organized her portfolio by displaying both mounted and non-mounted prints. The non-mounted photographs were presented in a protective archival box allowing for flexible movement and examination. The client appreciated this as an important detail. She explained that the lack of a fixed mount offered greater protection, permitting them to be easily shuffled for selection.
• Due to space constraints, the museum's collection included several non-mounted maps. The conservators implemented special storage systems to mitigate potential damage. The unmounted maps were carefully folded and stored in acid-free folders, preserving them from tearing. Careful handling and strategic storage was an important priority to keeping the contents intact, as mounting the maps would not be conducive to the available area.