Whether you have small tabletop pieces in your home, antique garden statuary, or large outdoor sculpture, here is some expert advice on proper and safe care for your bronze collection.
Corrosion, poor handling and inappropriate storage are the major causes of damage to metal artifacts. Most metal artifacts should not be handled with bare hands. Salts and oils from your skin can etch into uncoated metals and may even cause permanent damage. Soft cotton gloves or any clean glove or rag may be used for this purpose. Lift objects from their center of gravity. Avoid lifting objects by lip, limbs, handles, spouts or other extended areas; the metal may have developed unseen weaknesses over time and may bend or break unexpectedly.
Patina is a thin layer that forms on the surface of bronze and other metals, as a result of oxidation over a period of time. It is a certain type of tarnish that is generally green or greenish-blue in color and is especially valued both for its unique look and its protective attributes against further corrosion. Patina is a significant element of bronze sculptures, adding protective qualities and aesthetic effect. You want to be sure not to strip the sculpture of its patina, as it is an important feature that can affect the value of the piece.
For bronze sculpture placed outdoors, there are additional factors to consider when placing, caring for and maintaining the work. Avoid installing sculptures below anything that may allow water, sap, or other materials to continuously drip on surfaces. Do not install sculptures close to a swimming pool because it is a source of chlorinated water that can accelerate corrosion. Other contributors to condition problems include sun exposure, variations in weather, sprinkler systems, to name but a few.
To fully clean bronze sculptures, it’s always best to consult a professional conservator; however, you can perform a gentle ‘dry’ clean by brushing away loose dust with a soft-bristle brush and wiping with a soft cloth. Never use steel wool, abrasive powders, or harsh chemicals like tarnish removers. These will scratch or damage the surface and the patina.
In the San Francisco Bay Area, Tracy Power Objects Conservation is an excellent conservator for bronzes and other objects (see below for contact info). To find a professional objects conservator in your area, visit the American Institute for Conservation’s Find a Professional site: https://www.culturalheritage.org/professional-membership/find-a-professional 92e0d2cc3c1c/UploadedImages/Documents/Resources/How_Do_I_Care_for_Photographs.pdf