Renaissance wax is a type of microcrystalline wax polish widely used in museum curation, antique restoration and for domestic purposes. It is popular due to its ability to provide a long lasting protective layer to items. It is commonly applied on items that are frequently touched by hands. It is also a primary finish for furniture and cabinetry and protects them from the effects of spills and finger prints.
Wax coatings are commonly applied on paintings, leather, valuable furniture, metals, ivory, marble, onyx among other items. This procedure is performed for a number of reasons. It keeps away moisture and oxygen which prevents cases of rusting in metals. Moreover, it ensures that items that are touched by hands are not damaged.
The coating is performed using special tools that are selected based on the specific needs of the items being treated. The wax is lightly and evenly applied over the surface. A lint-free cloth is then used to polish the surface to give it a soft luster. In some cases a brush is used depending on the shape of the item being coated. This technique is also applied in the process of making jewelry to aid in the preservation of the patina of metals used.
Renaissance wax is commonly used over other coatings to create a better and stronger barrier. This is commonly seen in book-binding where other substances are applied on the surface before it is used. Bronze and copper coins are also preserved using this technique. This is made possible by the ability of the waxes to prevent the coins form being exposed to air and moisture.
There are several controversies surrounding the use of these coatings. They are known to be highly susceptible to accumulations of lint and dust. They also obscure finer details inscribed on the surface of the treated items. Scientific research shows that most commercial waxes contain acids which, over time, may spoil the original surfaces of the items on which they are applied. It is also difficult to remove these coatings.
Renaissance wax is widely used because of the many benefits it provides. Using it is a prevention measure that ensures valuable items are well guarded against heat, aging, environmental destruction, ordinary wear and humidity thus allowing property owners to save money. It also presents the devastating effects of fingerprints and spills of fluids on items.
It has an indefinite shelf life making it convenient and economical for use on large objects as well as infrequent use. Unlike other waxes that need generous application, a small amount goes a long way. They come in airtight containers that keep the wax in perfect condition for a long time. It cleans beautifully and enhances the appearance of the item restoring it to pristine condition.
Gathering adequate information about this technique prior to its use helps to minimize any potential risks. Tests have shown that there are certain conditions that are unfavorable for this technique. Under these conditions the efficiency of renaissance wax is greatly compromised. When applied on rough or powdery surfaces it causes white marks that affect the general appearance of the treated items.
Wax coatings are commonly applied on paintings, leather, valuable furniture, metals, ivory, marble, onyx among other items. This procedure is performed for a number of reasons. It keeps away moisture and oxygen which prevents cases of rusting in metals. Moreover, it ensures that items that are touched by hands are not damaged.
The coating is performed using special tools that are selected based on the specific needs of the items being treated. The wax is lightly and evenly applied over the surface. A lint-free cloth is then used to polish the surface to give it a soft luster. In some cases a brush is used depending on the shape of the item being coated. This technique is also applied in the process of making jewelry to aid in the preservation of the patina of metals used.
Renaissance wax is commonly used over other coatings to create a better and stronger barrier. This is commonly seen in book-binding where other substances are applied on the surface before it is used. Bronze and copper coins are also preserved using this technique. This is made possible by the ability of the waxes to prevent the coins form being exposed to air and moisture.
There are several controversies surrounding the use of these coatings. They are known to be highly susceptible to accumulations of lint and dust. They also obscure finer details inscribed on the surface of the treated items. Scientific research shows that most commercial waxes contain acids which, over time, may spoil the original surfaces of the items on which they are applied. It is also difficult to remove these coatings.
Renaissance wax is widely used because of the many benefits it provides. Using it is a prevention measure that ensures valuable items are well guarded against heat, aging, environmental destruction, ordinary wear and humidity thus allowing property owners to save money. It also presents the devastating effects of fingerprints and spills of fluids on items.
It has an indefinite shelf life making it convenient and economical for use on large objects as well as infrequent use. Unlike other waxes that need generous application, a small amount goes a long way. They come in airtight containers that keep the wax in perfect condition for a long time. It cleans beautifully and enhances the appearance of the item restoring it to pristine condition.
Gathering adequate information about this technique prior to its use helps to minimize any potential risks. Tests have shown that there are certain conditions that are unfavorable for this technique. Under these conditions the efficiency of renaissance wax is greatly compromised. When applied on rough or powdery surfaces it causes white marks that affect the general appearance of the treated items.
