GLOSSARY

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W

wavelength

Light is a form of electromagnetic radiation which travels in waves and delivers energy in bundles or quanta called photons. As the light energy travels, it moves in a wave motion passing through peaks and troughs. The distance between the peaks of the waves is called the wavelength and is measured in nanometres (nm).

wedges

See Keys.

whittawed leather

See Alum tawed leather.

window mount

The upper board of a mount with a window cut into it to frame the artwork. The window mount provides margins for handling the work without directly touching it. It keeps the glass or Perspex in the frame from direct contact with the work. It also plays an aesthetic role in enhancing the visual presentation of the artwork. See also Mounts, mats.

wood-pulp paper

Paper made from the cellulose fibres from woodchips rather than linen or cotton fibres. This paper is highly acidic and deteriorates rapidly unless treated to remove lignin. Wood pulp with lignin removed is referred to as chemical wood pulp, and is used to make acid-free, permanent papers and boards. See also Acid-free; Lignin; Rag paper.

wrappers

See Enclosures.