![]() Since maintenance programs for outdoor sculpture deal with larger surfaces than those normally associated with indoor care, waxing a cool bronze surface may take more time as it is advisable to apply, let dry, and buff these large surfaces in small sections.ġ. Multi-patinas, or those patinaed surfaces that contain more than one patina or color, should always be waxed carefully in the cool of the late afternoon. For a dark or light patina, we recommend cleaning in the heat of the day, allowing time for the bronze to dry. It is recommended to choose a clear warm day in spring and again in fall. The best time to clean and wax bronze sculpture depends on whether it has a light, dark, or multi-colored patina. The following are general cleaning instructions and should not be used without further consultation. Kipperįor any outdoor bronze sculpture, we highly recommend contacting the artist, gallery, or even foundry that cast the piece to determine the best maintenance program for your specific piece. Other liquids in the form of beverages found in the household which are damaging when they come in contact with patinaed bronze are:įor more information or tips on caring for your bronze sculpture, we recommend the book "The Care of Bronze Sculpture: Recommended Maintenance Programs" by Patrick V. The following is a list of commercial household products that should never come in contact with the patinaed bronze surface:Īny other strong or weak cleaning solvents If you would like to keep the matte look, you can forgo this final buffing step. ![]() ![]() Work the cloth in a circular motion on the large smooth ares of the surface. Using a clean, dry cotton cloth, begin gently rubbing the surface of the bronze until the desired shine appears. Wait about 30 mins until the wax has completely dried.Ĥ. Continue waxing until the entire surface has been covered. You will be able to tell where you have waxed as the surface will be matte and not shiny. Over-waxing a bronze patina can shift and remove pigments suspended in waxes originally placed on the surface as part of the patina.ģ. Gently work the brush down into the crevices as you apply the wax. Therefore, carefully put a super-thin coat of wax on the surface of the bronze in a gentle sweeping motion. There is a possibility that too much wax can harm or even destroy a patina. One or two strokes should do it, you really don't want to overload the brush with wax (especially with Johnson Paste Wax), that will result in a longer drying period and possible wax buildup. Using a new 2-inch Chip Brush and a can of Johnson Paste Wax (you can buy this at Home Depot or Lowes), lay the bristles of the brush across the wax surface back and forth in a sweeping motion. Wrap the metal ferrules of the brush with some masking tape to avoid scratching the patina while dusting.Ģ. We recommend cleaning deeper crevices with a 2-inch paint brush (the cheap "chip" brushes work great for this). Using a soft, clean cotton cloth, gently wipe the surface free of any dust and fingerprints. Never use spray or liquid furniture polishes to dust or clean a bronze sculpture as many of these products contain oils that can soften initial wax coatings, thus darkening lighter patinas and/or removing the protective finish.ġ. ![]() If you would like a piece "re-patinaed", feel free to contact us!Ĭleaning and waxing an indoor bronze sculpture at least once a year is recommended, possibly twice a year in humid or corrosive environments. The surface is "sandblasted" using high- pressured sand and air to remove the patina finish, allowing for a new patina to be applied. There is always the option to put on a new patina to any bronze sculpture. The surface of your bronze can be cared for using the following steps below, but unfortunately over time there is a natural oxidation process that must occur. Depending on preference, some people really like the look of an aged bronze, while others prefer a fresh, new patina look. The important thing to remember is that all bronze darkens as it ages, but by with proper care of the surface of your sculpture, you may be able to slow this oxidation process for a time. Originally it had a shiny orange-red copper color, but because of the moisture in the air, it quickly oxidized into its famous green color. One of the most famous examples is the Statue of Liberty. You've probably seen a copper penny turn green when left in water over time, or a public statue fade with a green tint. The resulting copper oxide is a dull green. Copper turns green because of an oxidation reaction that is, it loses electrons when exposed to water and air. Its important to know that bronze is about 95% copper (depending on the alloy). ![]()
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