In the exhibition hall, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship of classical wardrobes often involves the use of fluorescent lights to illuminate the background and spotlights that highlight intricate details. While this lighting system enhances the visual appeal of the mahogany wardrobes, many people are unaware that light can also be harmful.
UV rays are more damaging to the wardrobes than infrared rays. According to experts, the safety of the lighting system is crucial in wardrobe exhibition halls. Moreover, even though we can't see it with our eyes, ordinary exhibition lights pose hidden dangers—specifically, the damage caused by infrared and ultraviolet rays. Among these, UV radiation is particularly harmful.
Both types of rays contribute to the deterioration of the wardrobe through chemical and physical processes. Ultraviolet rays cause photochemical damage, while infrared rays lead to physical damage. Compared to visible light, ultraviolet rays have a much higher photon activation ability. Their destructive power is not just several times greater but multiplied exponentially. This is because many organic substances on the wardrobe's surface strongly absorb ultraviolet light, triggering molecular degradation. In contrast, organic materials rarely absorb other visible light, making UV rays far more dangerous. This poses a serious threat to the longevity of the furniture.
As a result, it is widely accepted in the international museum community that the light sources used for displaying cultural relics should avoid ultraviolet rays as much as possible.
Although the activation ability of infrared rays is much lower than that of ultraviolet rays, they can raise the temperature of the wardrobe's surface and surrounding environment. This heat is what we typically feel when exposed to light. The increased temperature can accelerate the chemical reactions caused by UV rays. Additionally, rising temperatures cause moisture to evaporate, leading to thermal expansion and contraction of the wardrobe’s surface, which speeds up the aging process. Therefore, controlling both UV and infrared exposure is essential for preserving the integrity of antique furniture.