Bronze, like most metals
wants to oxidize with time. The same way steel rusts, bronze wants to
darken or turn green depending on its environment. With regular
maintenance you can extend the life of the patina for many years.
The maintenance of bronze should consist of cleaning and re-waxing.
Location and climate conditions will determine how often maintenance will
be required. In general, outdoor pieces should be maintained 2 to 4 times
a year and indoor pieces once or twice a year. Areas with harsh climate
conditions will require a more frequent maintenance program.
1. Cleaning:
The first step in caring for your sculpture is keeping the piece clean.
You can do this with a dust rag, soft shoe brush, or duster. If heavy
cleaning is required, use a mild soap such as Dawn with water and a soft
cloth. Wipe clean and dry with a rag then allow the sculpture to air
completely dry before moving on. DO NOT use any type of cleanser or
solvent to clean your sculpture.
2. Choosing a wax:
In general you want to use a clear carnauba paste wax. "Mohawk Blue
Label Paste Wax" seems to work the best for all patinas. It goes on easily
and buffs out really clean. Another choice which is easier to find at most
hardware stores is "Trewax". Trewax often leaves a white residue in the
lows of the sculpture. This can easily be buffed out with a shoe brush.
For black, brown, and gold patinas you can use "Johnsons Traffic Wax". It
goes on easily and buffs out nicely. Johnson's paste wax is not
recommended for multi colored patinas. It will often darken bright and
delicate patinas.
3. Waxing:
Using a 2" to 3" round pastry brush (or a paintbrush), stipple a thin even
layer of paste wax on the bronze. Lightly wipe off excess wax with a soft
cloth. Let the wax dry to a matte color then buff out with a clean cloth
to bring out the luster of the bronze. If desired, you can add a second
coat of wax for gloss and added protection. This will also help even out
the coat of wax if necessary. There is no danger in waxing the sculpture
too often.
Outdoor Sculptures
Whether you want your sculpture to age naturally or wish to preserve the
artist's original patina you should keep the piece clean and free of dirt.
Avoid water from sprinklers. In areas that collect water after rain, wipe
dry or drill a few weep holes to prevent water damage.
You're done. Enjoy!
