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Collectibles-General (Antiques)/Brass or Bronze finish

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Expert: - 1/21/2010


Question
Hi,
How would I clean a brass or bronze finish?  I have an item with a metal finish that needs to be cleaned but I don't want to do anything to devalue the piece either.  Thanks.  

Answer
Hi Jim
Nice to hear from you.
When you say you don't want to devalue the piece I assume this is something old.
I was always told never to mess with old bronze or brass.
You never want to remove the wonderful patina these old pieces get after many years.
So just dust.
If you insist on making something old look new, they have great cleaners for all types of metal and brass but I would not do it.
Regards
Eileen

Collectibles-General (Antiques)

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Eileen Cronk

Expertise

I can answer most questions about the repairing and refinishing of all your old furniture items (the things we call antiques). I can also give you advice on what wood items to choose and what wood items to avoid at auctions, flea markets etc. I DO NOT give appraisals on antiques as this is not my field of expertise.

Experience

I have been repairing, refinishing and of course buying old furniture for the past 30 years. On any given weekend I can be found at auction sales or flea markets searching out a good buy. I have taken several courses in this area over the years, but I find "Hands On" learning to be the best teacher. I can help you avoid the pitfalls and problems of this wonderful rewarding craft.

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