Escar UK Bronze : The Care & Maintenance of Bronze

PATINA

Patination is the enhancement of bronze by the application of chemicals to produce different colour finishes. The acids and chemicals used in our workshops are a closely guarded secret as they produce some of the finest and most spectacular finishes to be seen on bronze today

MAINTENANCE

Bronze may darken, turn green or even show streaks of yellow / white over time, depending on the climatic environment. Although many people like the look of aged bronze, you may wish to keep your statue as near to its original look as possible

Occasionally, small deposits of white ceramic may ‘bleed’ out of the bronze, this is natural and will stop in time. These deposits are easily cleaned away by following the tips below

Once clean, allow to air dry then apply a coat or two of wax polish with a boot brush. When using cleaning agents, always be aware of adverse effects on plants and aquatic life

HELPFUL TIPS

Indoors : Bronze ages slowly and only needs an occasional dusting with a soft cloth or brush and an occasional application of wax polish

Outdoors : For water features and statues kept outside, more attention will be required, depending on the situation

Clean debris with a brush and soapy water : NEVER use strong chemicals, solvents or abrasives, as this will certainly affect the finish

RECOMMENDATIONS

If left without any protection bronze, like most metals, will oxidize with time

Although furniture wax produces good results, our preference is Kiwi shoe polish, dark brown for the darker patination (not tan as this can create a red hue) and clear for the green / blue colours. Apply the wax generously, working it into features and folds

Water features may benefit from a second application and more frequent attention, especially in hard-water conditions

When dry, buff thoroughly with a brush or cloth

With outdoor features, any debris or ceramic deposits caught in the more complex areas of your sculpture can be teased out with a soft lead pencil

Please note: the colours on this website are only a guide as patination can differ according to the craftsman and his technique

Bespoke commissions can be undertaken from the design through to casting and patination