I had the same type of moulding in my old house, a 1940's cottage, and hung VERY heavy pictures from it with no problem. I used two hangers for my heaviest piece (so heavy it was difficult to move around by myself). Your moulding can probably handle it. I would be most concerned about afixing the rope securely. I'm not sure about how to do this in your case, though. Sorry that I'm no help. I would hate to mess with the plaster, too. First of all, it isn't strong enough to hold unless you hit a stud. Secondly, the placement of those aren't always where you want your art to hang. I swear, my studs were petrified wood! I couldn't even get a drill to go through them, it just got stuck.

Yes, I'd like to know too since you didn't say the age of the photo and according the article linked above, if it's in color and/or a newer black and white photo it's only doable if you can scrape it off using a razor blade. I have photos of my folks that have been framed for pushing two decades now. Both were stuck to the glass so I know that removing them is a very iffy process. It didn't work for me. If you try that you'll need someone to help you since two hands just aren't enough. Luckily the only damage is to the background and they were professional portraits so I'll be able to digitally repair them when I take the time to scan them. Personally, if this is the only copy you have, I'd go the scanning route since that can't harm the photo. Good Luck!

Unfortunately, our local framing shop went out of business a few years ago and I don't like using online for this. So, I am relegated to Hobby Lobby or Michaels. But, I have found the personnel at both to have an impeccable eye for complementing artwork with matting. The man at our local Hobby Lobby has been there as long as the store, and always has great suggestions. They'll cut it as you wait, and I don't find them pricey at all. In fact, the local framer was at least 1/3 more in cost, maybe more. I still used and supported her until she went out of business, and you may want to find a small business owner. But, don't discount Michael's because it's a chain. You also won't have to worry about the mats denting or bending in transit like online. I also don't buy frames online because I prefer glass.

measure them and make sure they both fit. but should be ok. you don't want something too big. just enough to fit comfortably under the table.