Expert: Leisha Hiester - 7/19/2010

Question
I have 2 ceramic masks that have been packed away for years. Before being packed away they hung in a home that had 3 smokers. They are very yellow looking and dusty. They don't seem to have any finish of any kind on them. Even without a finish on them is it still safe to clean them with warm soapy water? If not is there something else I could use to clean them?

Answer
Dear Tami,

Do you know if the masks have been fired? Are they glazed? If they were fired (bisque) before being packed away, yes you can clean them. If they are fragile clay (still greenware) the water will melt them. Try a small corner first to see the effect before attaching the entire mask.

Leisha

Tami,
Since neither piece has been fired, you could have them fired in a kiln. This will burn off the old dust %26 smoke and permanently harden them. If you have a local ceramic shop, they should be able to fire them for you for a nominal fee. :) Leisha