Art & Antiques Useful Information

🔸 Regular Dusting:

Use a soft brush (like a baby's hairbrush) or a clean, soft cloth to remove dust and fingerprints.

🔸 Gentle Cleaning:

If washing is needed, use warm, soapy water (mild, phosphate-free dish soap) and a soft sponge or cloth.

🔸 Avoid Abrasives:

Steer clear of harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, and rough sponges or brushes that can scratch the silver.

🔸 Rinse Thoroughly:

Ensure all soap residue is removed by rinsing with warm water.

🔸 Dry Immediately:

Dry the silver completely with a soft, lint-free cloth to prevent water spots and tarnishing.

🔸 Polishing (When Needed):

Use a non-abrasive silver polish, applying it with a soft cloth in a straight line (not circular) to avoid scratches.

🔸 Rinse After Polishing:

Rinse off any polish residue thoroughly.

🔸 Proper Storage:

Store silver in a cool, dry place, wrapped in anti-tarnish cloth or pouches, and ideally separated to prevent scratching.

🔸 Avoid Harsh Chemicals:

Keep silver away from rubber, latex, wool, and foods like eggs and onions, which can accelerate tarnishing.

🔸 Consider Professional Restoration:

For heavily tarnished or damaged pieces, professional restoration is recommended.

🔸 Be Mindful of Thin Silver:

When dealing with silver plate, be extra gentle when polishing and cleaning to avoid removing the thin layer of silver.

🔸 Don't Over-Polish:

Frequent polishing can wear down the silver, so only polish when necessary.

1. Dusting:

Regularly dust your antique bronze pieces with a soft, dry cloth to prevent the buildup of dirt and grime.

2. Gentle Cleaning:

For more thorough cleaning, use a solution of mild soap (like dish soap) and warm water. Apply with a soft cloth or sponge, ensuring not to scrub harshly.

3. Rinsing:

Rinse the bronze with clean water to remove any soap residue. Use distilled water if possible to avoid water spots.

4. Drying:

Thoroughly dry the bronze with a clean, soft cloth. Ensure no moisture remains to prevent water stains or further damage.

5. Protection:

Consider applying a light coat of mineral oil or a wax designed for bronze. This helps to protect the surface and maintain its shine.

6. Storage:

When not in use, store your bronze items in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures, to prevent damage and oxidation.

🔸 Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners:

These can scratch the surface or damage the patina, which is the protective layer on the bronze.

🔸 Test cleaning solutions:

Before using any cleaning product or method, test it on a small, inconspicuous area of the bronze to ensure it doesn't cause any damage.

🔸 Preserve the patina:

The patina is an important part of the bronze's character. Avoid using methods that might remove it, especially on antique pieces.

🔸 Dust Regularly:

Use a soft, dry cloth or a brush with soft bristles to remove dust and dirt. Avoid harsh chemicals or excessive moisture.

🔸 Protect from Sunlight:

Direct sunlight can cause fading and damage. Position furniture away from windows or use curtains to filter sunlight.

🔸 Control Humidity:

Maintain a consistent humidity level to prevent wood from drying out or warping. Use a humidifier if necessary, especially in dry climates.

🔸 Avoid Extreme Temperatures:

Keep furniture away from heat sources like radiators and fireplaces.

🔸 Clean Spills Immediately:

Wipe up spills promptly with a soft, slightly damp cloth. Avoid letting liquids sit on the wood.

🔸 Test Cleaning Products:

Before using any new cleaning product, test it on a small, inconspicuous area of the wood.

🔸 Mild Soap and Water:

For light cleaning, use a solution of mild dish soap and water. Wring the cloth out thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.

🔸 Specialized Cleaners:

Consider using natural oils or furniture polish designed for antique wood. Beeswax is a good option for nourishment and protection.

🔸 Polishing:

Apply wax or polish with a soft cloth, and buff with a clean, dry cloth.

🔸 Avoid Harsh Chemicals:

Never use abrasive cleaners, scouring pads, or strong solvents on antique wood.

🔸 Don't Over-Polish:

Excessive polishing can damage the finish and strip away the patina.

🔸 Insects and Pests:

Be vigilant for signs of pests like woodworm or termites. Consult a professional if you suspect an infestation.

🔸 Water Rings:

Allow water rings to dry naturally. Don't try to treat them while they are wet.

🔸 Brass and Metal Fittings:

Clean brass and other metal fittings separately with appropriate cleaners, taking care not to damage the surrounding wood.

🔸 Upholstery:

Vacuum upholstery regularly to remove dust and dirt. If necessary, use a gentle method like cello tape to remove stubborn hairs.

🔸 Repairs:

For major repairs, consult us or a professional store.

🔸 Handling:

Antique ceramics are often fragile, so handle them with care. Avoid stacking them or placing them in areas where they could be easily bumped or dropped.

🔸 Cleaning:

• Dry Cleaning: For dust and light dirt, use a soft brush or a microfiber cloth to gently remove any loose debris.

• Wet Cleaning: If dry cleaning isn't sufficient, use lukewarm water and a mild, non-abrasive detergent. Avoid soaking the piece, and use a soft cloth or cotton swab to gently wipe away dirt. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and allow to air dry.

• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Never use harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, or strong detergents, as these can damage the glaze or surface.

• Dishwashers: Avoid using dishwashers, as the high temperature and abrasive action can damage the ceramics.

• Painted or Metal Plated Ceramics: Please use extreme precaution while cleaning if the ceramic is painted or metal plated. Those thin layers might disappear in time because of excessive cleaning/ use of chemical detergents.

🔸 Temperature Changes:

Protect ceramics from sudden temperature changes, as this can cause cracking or breakage.

🔸 Kintsugi:

If your antique ceramic is damaged, consider kintsugi, a traditional Japanese art of repair that uses lacquer and gold to mend broken pieces. This technique not only repairs the damage but also enhances the aesthetic value of the piece.

🔸 Storage:

When storing antique ceramics, wrap them in acid-free paper or cloth to protect them from dust and scratches. Avoid storing them in damp or humid conditions.

🔸 Pre-treatment (for porous ceramics):

Some antique Japanese ceramics, like those made with soft, porous clay (e.g., Shigaraki, Kohiki, Hagi ware), may benefit from a pre-treatment to prevent staining and odor. Submerge the piece in lukewarm water for an extended period to allow the clay to absorb the water, then dry it thoroughly.

🔸 Rice Washing Water:

Some sources suggest using water that has been used to wash rice to fill the gaps in porous ceramics, which can help prevent odor and staining.