The coloration on the surface of most bronzes is achieved by an artistic application of specific chemical compounds (Patination) causing certain oxidation processes to occur which brings about specific colors. The bronze is then “sealed” traditionally with waxes and/or lacquers. This is done to help protect the patina as well as the bronze surface, which is otherwise quite sensitive to color changes brought about by its exposure to its immediate environment.

Therefore, in order to help maintain your bronze, a thin coat of paste wax applied to the surface once or twice a year (outdoor pieces should be cleaned and waxed at least twice a year or more often if required) is recommended. Using a soft bristle brush (wrap the metal part that holds the bristles with duct tape)(never a rag) apply a thin coat of carnauba wax (in the form of “Johnson’s Paste Wax” or “Tre Wax”) to the surface. The patina may darken, but as the wax dries, the color will reappear. Let the wax dry for approximately one hour. Then, using a soft clean cloth, buff your bronze until a desired glow or sheen appears. NEVER use household cleansers or furniture polishes that may have cleaning agents in them. They will tend to soften and remove any existing protective wax from the surface, exposing the patina to the elements.

Some collectors of fine art may choose to let their bronzes age “naturally”. Therefore, no additional sealer is required. Just sit back and enjoy the subtle yet ongoing changes.

For smaller, mainly indoor bronzes, the following cleaning tips may be helpful prior to applying a coat of wax and for general year round cleaning.

• For general dusting: Use a soft bristle brush (wrap the metal part that holds the bristles with duct tape) dedicated for use only on your bronzes. If an air compressor is available (with a rubber tip on the air nozzle) it makes for a great method of cleaning any dust from all the “Nooks and Crannies”.
• For larger, life size (usually outdoor) bronzes, washing the piece with a 50% white vinegar and 50% water mix usually works well for cleaning the surface. Be sure to rinse thoroughly. Again, an air compressor that can spray out those “Nooks & Crannies” (removing and trapped grit and water), without being abrasive to the surface of the bronze, is a wonderful tool.

 

Another general tip: Avoid washing and waxing your outdoor pieces in cold weather or in direct sun, it just makes things a bit more difficult. Attempt to do your cleaning on those nice 70 degree overcast days.

Additionally: For those bronzes mounted on a wood base, the waxes listed above work
wonderfully well. And remember not to use any abrasive techniques when cleaning and waxing. Sand and dirt are both very hard on bronzes, if rubbed on the surface.