Use of such materials could mark the surface of the sculpture.Īdditional comments on sculpture to be placed near water Chemicals will adversely affect the patina.ģ) Never use abrasive cleaning pads, steel wool or sandpaper on the sculpture. If a higher gloss is required or desired, harder wax may be used.ġ) Never use chemicals, cleaning solutions, tarnish removers, or any other unknown substances to clean the surface of the sculpture.Ģ) Avoid exposing the sculpture to chemicals such as fertilizer sprays, chlorine, pesticides, bug sprays, window washing products, ammonia or other household products. Remember that the wax is used to polish the sculpture, it is not intended to be rubbed through the wax or the patina. Step 3: After the wax is dried (usually in about 20 minutes), buff the surface to a good gloss with a soft, clean cloth. If the coat is too thick, the wax may turn white or show brushstrokes. Using a circular motion, rub the wax into the surface of the metal in a thin, uniform coat. Use a good commercial clear wax that does NOT have spirits (alcohol) or turpentine in it, or Kiwi Shoe Polish (Dark Tan) which is great for covering white and green spots on a deep bronze patina. Step 2: The sculpture is now ready to apply the wax to the surface with a soft bristle brush or soft shoe brush. Do not rub excessively and use the cloth only to remove any build-up of dust or dirt.įor outdoor sculptures, ensure the above ‘Cleaning Steps’ are followed. Step 1: Ensure the sculpture has been thoroughly cleaned.įor indoor sculptures, dust the sculpture whilst dry and use a damp microfibre cloth to give the sculpture a light clean. Be sure that all the water has evaporated from the pores of the metal. If the weather is warm, a few hours should be sufficient. are destructive to patinas or paint and should be removed with warm water as soon as they are discovered. Droppings that are difficult to remove may be removed by scraping very gently with a soft plastic spatula. Step 2: Tree resin, bird droppings, dog-wee, etc. It is important to rinse the sculpture thoroughly. A soft non-wire brush or soft toothbrush may help to get into corners and remove dirt. Step 1: Wash the sculpture with ‘Turtle Wax’ using warm water and a soft cloth. Outdoor sculptures – Clean every 12 weeks and wax every 6 months (minimum).Indoor sculptures – Remove dust every 8 weeks and wax every 12 months (minimum).This is to prevent an accumulation of dirt and droppings on the piece. It is good practice to keep the sculpture clean and rag buffed between wax treatments. A waxing treatment should be applied at least 2 times per year on outdoor sculptures. Dust can be hard to see as it sticks to a surface and nearly invisible in some cases, however it can be detrimental to the finish of bronze if left over time, so sculptures placed indoors will also require cleaning on a regular basis to remove any dust build up.Īlso, if the sculpture looks dull, it is time to wax it. If dust, dirt, bird droppings, or other residues build up on the sculpture, it will need to be washed. The best method for caring for patinas always includes regular cleaning and waxing, which is important for both the appearance and longevity of the bronze. Over time, this barrier is worn off and water and oxygen work together to oxidize the surface, aging the patina. This paste wax helps prevent oxygen from getting to the bronze and oxidizing the surface. When leaving the foundry, the sculptures have a coating of paste wax. The patina is not a paint but a very thin conversion coat on the surface of the bronze. The color that develops from the chemical interaction between elements in the bronze and chemicals applied to the bronze is called a patina. The following information will help you to understand the nature of bronze and how to care for it. The maintenance of bronze is simple and easy. Caring for your sculpture and your responsibility as the owner.īronze sculptures can be displayed either indoors or outdoors and will maintain their original appearance as long as they are cared for periodically.
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