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August 28, 1999 at 21:30:27
In Reply to: Cleaning plate and bronze or copper button
posted by David Case at Md on August 28, 1999 at 15:12:47
Hi,
sounds like some super finds!
The plate may be concave from "dishing" caused by differential contraction of the metals. A light washing and brushing is all that is required on the plate. If it looks stable simply stop there. If it appears that the cracking is progressing, especially in the lead filled back..then apply thin coats of virgin olive oil over a period of days. It will darken the brass and hide any dirt but it will halt the cracking.
Keep it in an airtight container. After a few months you can take it out and dry off the brass side with cotton. As it further dries out the brass will return to a more aged look, yet remain a bit darker. At some point return it to the airtight container to stabilize.
On the button, first show it to a button expert. It may be very valuable and would best be left "as is" until that is determined. Post these two on the Photo Forum here so that we may determine these things.
hh
-=john=-
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