Detalle de la técnica de la obra "Marrón y plata I", de Jackson Pollock

An expansion-bolt stretcher

Bastidor de la obra de Jackson Pollock, "Marrón y plata I"

Brown and Silver I by Jackson Pollock is mounted on a type of stretcher not commonly found in the Thyssen-Bornemisza collection: an expansion-bolt stretcher, a system that differs from those generally found in artworks. 

Although the structure is made of wood, unlike stretchers that might be classed as traditional, it does not have wedges or keys at the corners to tense the canvas. Instead, bolts inserted directly into the stretcher bars are turned to achieve the appropriate tension.   

The advantage of this type of stretcher lies in how it works, as it enables the tension to be adjusted more smoothly: since there is no need to ‘strike’ the wedges to tighten the canvas, any possible vibration or movement of the fabric is minimised. 

A stretcher is part of an artwork’s structure and is usually concealed behind it, out of the viewer’s sight. Its function is essential to the stability of the work. It is an invisible element that guarantees the conservation of the painting.

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