Hi Denise,

we had a vaguely similar situation at my museum - we have a 6' long by 1 1/2' wide glass prescriptions sign that we wanted to hang (although I doubt it is a fragile as yours?).  We also did not want to alter the original wooden frame, so we built a frame that encompasses the original frame, but does not actually secure to it.  The frame we built is very thick as it holds both sides of the sign's original frame (picture C-channels) - three sides were built, the sign placed within, then the fourth side was put in place and secured. Hanging hardware was already installed on the sides so that there was minimal movement/pressure on the piece as a whole - it was then hung with wires/eyelets that had been secured in the wall's studs.  Of course, this created wood on wood contact, which we tried to alleviate by placing a layer of mylar in between.  

Where you plan to hang it, will it have a wall to rest against? 

I don't know if the above is much help, seems like you have already thought of something similar.  I am wondering though, with the cost of plexiglass and the further cost of having a custom case made, perhaps it would save you money in the long-run to not go with that option and instead investigate having a glass conservator work on the piece first and have that conservator also make/design a way to safely mount the piece.   Sounds like you have an interesting piece, best of luck :) 

Sylvia

Sylvia Bruner
Assistant Director / Registrar
Johnson Co. Jim Gatchell Memorial Museum
Mail: P.O. Box 596
Shipping: 100 Fort Street
Buffalo, WY 82834
307-684-9331
www.jimgatchell.com
"Like" us on facebook!  https://www.facebook.com/JimGatchellMemorialMuseum

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