Antique ownership is a privilege of being a custodian of history. An antique is an item that has been around for a considerable period. It could be a table, a vase, a painting, a clock, a rug, or even something as simple as a candlestick holder. What matters is that it has survived the test of time. So, what happens to an antique now depends on the actions taken to preserve it for future generations.
Antiques are often damaged more from poor storage and cleaning than from age. Therefore, proper preservation of antiques is crucial. There are several tips for preserving antiques that do not require complicated or expensive equipment. All that’s needed is an understanding of how materials react to different environmental conditions and to various types of handling.
The Importance of Preservation
Antiques are irreplaceable, and damage to them often means irreparable loss. Even when antiques can be repaired, the original materials are often lost or changed in the process. Preservation maintains the originality of the antique, and ensures that the passage of time doesn’t destroy it. It doesn’t mean leaving an antique looking brand new; rather, it means preserving the original character and history. For those of us interested in antiques, we’re helping to preserve our own collection and the world’s cultural heritage at the same time.
Handling Antiques
Many antiques are more delicate than they appear to be. They may be made of wood that is brittle from age, or ceramics that can chip easily, or even old glass that is thin and fragile. If you need to move an antique, hold it where it’s sturdy, not on a handle, lid, or other protruding parts. Clean hands, or better yet gloves, help keep dirt and oils off of the antique’s surface. This is perhaps the easiest and most effective way to preserve an antique.
Environmental Factors
The environment in which an antique is stored can have a huge effect on how well it ages. Temperature and humidity fluctuations can cause many materials to expand and contract, warping wood, cracking paint, embrittling paper, and corroding metal. Even if you don’t have the right temperature and humidity levels, consistent conditions can help an antique survive longer.
Light Exposure
Sunlight can cause fabrics, paintings, papers, and wood stains to fade, and it can discolor even sturdy materials like porcelain or metal after years of exposure. Keep antiques out of direct sunlight, and use lights sparingly when displaying them. Rotate them so that some stay in the dark while others are on display.
Cleaning
Cleaning is one of the biggest mistakes people make when they own antiques. They think the only way to clean an antique is to polish it until it shines, but this can strip the finish, remove old paint, or damage any decorations. Clean dust from the surface with a soft cloth, and never use household cleaning supplies or abrasive materials. Water can also cause permanent damage, especially to paper. Consult a professional if you’re unsure about how to clean a valuable antique.
Restoration vs. Conservation
These two words are often used interchangeably, but they don’t mean the same thing. Restoration is returning an antique to its original condition, which may include replacing missing or damaged parts. Conservation is stabilizing the antique while keeping as much of the original material as possible. Modern conservationists often aim to do as little as possible to an antique, keeping the original evidence of age intact while preventing further deterioration. Knowing the difference between these two terms will help you decide what’s best for your antique.
Documentation
It’s important to keep good records of your antiques. You’ll want photographs, sales information, dimensions, research notes, and a record of the current condition of each antique. These documents will help you identify the piece, insure it, and decide how to treat it in the future. They’ll also allow you to notice any changes over time. As your collection grows, these records will prove invaluable.
Learning
Conservationists are constantly researching new ways to preserve antiques. Reading books and magazines, attending classes, visiting museums, and attending exhibitions can help you learn more about conservation. The more you know, the better you’ll be able to preserve your antique collection.
Conclusion
Antique preservation isn’t just about keeping things looking nice. It’s about preserving the history and culture embodied by these objects. By taking care of your antiques, controlling the environment, being careful when you clean them, and continuing to learn more, you can help keep them for future generations. An antique that is properly preserved will continue to tell its story for generations to come.