How to care for old metal bells?
Question:I inherited some Thai Temple bells from my grandfather. I don't know exactly what they are made of...a nice brown metal. Inside the bell it looks corroded, whitish. Is it bronze maybe?
How delicate are they? They've been stored in a cardboard box for years. I'd like to have them outside but not if it will ruin them. I'd also like to clean them but still keep their nice weathered appearance. They just feel grubby.
Answers:
Dont do anything to them until you talk to an antiques dealer. Or dine in a Thai restaurant and ask someone there that might know about them. Or google til you find the info you need. Just dont do anything to them unless you know for sure how to restore them.
Besides the value of being from your grandfather, be cautious of what you do to keep their value otherwise.
Put some white distilled vinegar on a rag/wash cloth & wipe off any grime. Then when all is removed buff it with a soft cloth.
Take care & God bless.
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