I just recieved these from Boris.

[jason_mazzy]

And in person they are 10 times better than these pictures:

 

'

 

 

My question is what is the best way to clean these? I do not want to disturb the soft medal or patina, but I do not like this discolored (greenish yellow film) places around the birds. Boiling in distilled water seems to be pretty safe for removing grime without hurting patina. But since there are some experts here I thought I would ask.

[Grey Doffin]

Jason,

Not an expert but I would start easy: hot water and a tooth brush. May be all that's required.

Grey

[b.hennick]

Hi Jason:

To echo Grey I too used warm water and a soft toothbrush. I also bought some kids soap that comes out of the bottle as a foam. It is a pure product that I put on the brush and use to remove dirt. I have had no problems with this approach. Gentle does it. It is better to go easy and repeat things if necessary. After I do my initial cleaning I use a hand lens to see areas I need to go over again.

BTW the f/k look fine and Bori is always a pleasure to deal with.

[jason_mazzy]

I'm just nervous about the brush as I have had it remove gold and scratch patina before

[b.hennick]

Toothbrushes come is soft, medium and hard. I use a soft used but well cleaned (no toothpaste!) brush. Go slow, be gentle....

[ububob]

Try a kids toothbrush which is very soft and I would take the water one step further by using the distilled variety. No trace salts that could possibly etch the metal.

You can also shop an art supply store for artists brushes of variable stiffness and material.

[jason_mazzy]

yes distilled water.

[Martin]

Hi Jason,

 

time to marry it with this Tsuba

 

viewtopic.php?f=4&t=7300

 

Cheers,

[reinhard]

I'm just nervous about the brush as I have had it remove gold and scratch patina before

 

Where's Mr.Hallam when you REALLY need him?

 

reinhard

[Stephen]

jason_mazzy wrote:

I'm just nervous about the brush as I have had it remove gold and scratch patina before

 

check out brushes at a art store, you can find one that you wont mind using.

[Brian]

Jason,

Less is more. You are not trying to scrub the thing with a wire brush :?

A very soft horsehair brush is often used. Or a soft artists paintbrush. Everything is done gently and in moderation.

Myself...I don't do much more than put some gentle soap on my hands and wash the fittings under warm water. I am hesitant to even suggest methods, but if you are going to do anything, just remember that slow and gentle is the key.

 

Brian

[jason_mazzy]

yes I think a stiff horse hair painting brush would probably be best. I have found that the nylon in toothbrushes seems to harm the gold if it is gilted.