“Treat your Treasures” properly
The Care of Bronzes
Whether your bronze is an art appreciation or an investment, it is important to know how to properly care for your sculpture. Bronzes are relatively care free. Regular dusting is the minimum of care it requires. If you do find a need to clean your bronze more thoroughly, we have listed some cleaning methods below.
1. Cleaning a bronze
Remove dust with a damp sponge. To dislodge imbedded material from deep crevices, try using a Cutip, though proceed carefully.
Do not use metal objects or wire brushes.
Do not apply abrasives, such as cleaners; these materials will scratch the finish.
2. Silicone polishing rag
To bring out the natural-looking highlights, rub the bronze figure vigorously with a silicone treated cloth. This can be purchased at any gun dealer.
3. Transparent leather preservative
Apply the preservative to a soft damp cloth and wipe it over the surface of the bronze. Next, rub the surface with a dry soft rag, the more you rub the surface, the higher the luster.
4. Lightweight lock or watch oil
Apply the oil with a long bristled paint brush. Cover the entire figure with oil and allow the oil to set. After a few minutes, wipe the surface with a soft cloth, thus leaving the figure with a pleasing moist look.
5. Spray Wax
For general everyday upkeep, clean your bronze figure with pledge and a soft clean cloth. This will give it a protective wax finish and alleviate the dust, which can destroy the patina.
The care of paintings
Original oil paintings will prove a lasting joy and sound investment for you and your family. Here are some pointers to aid you in the presentation and maintenance of your paintings.
Old Framed image
Temperature changes can sometimes cause the canvas to become loose. Any folds in the painting may be straightened by lightly sprinkling water on the back of the canvas and then by placing it either over a hot air register or by placing it directly in the sunlight where it will shrink. Extremely loose canvas may have to be re-stretched.
Any dust that accumulates on the oil painting should be removed by lightly brushing a damp cloth over the canvas. Velvet paintings can be cleaning regularly with a vacuum cleaner attachment – but not with a damp cloth. Miracle brush can be used on a velvet surface, but never on the paint.
Paintings should be hung in such a manner that they are not at an angle. Hang the paintings using wire or hooks pulled as tightly as possible, or by hanging the paintings on two headless or finishing nails placed on an even level (about ¼” – ½” apart), and protruding about half an inch from the wall.
One more tip…..be careful of the sunlight. Get advice on how and where to hang good quality art.