Handmade objects age differently from industrial products. Variations in colour, patina, grain and surface texture are part of their character and can continue to evolve naturally over time.
A little careful handling will help preserve your MyDogon piece for many years.
AFRICAN BRONZE & COPPER-ALLOY OBJECTS
Many of our metal objects are made from cast copper alloys, commonly referred to in the art trade as “African bronze”.
Their brown, golden, copper, dark or greenish surface tones are part of the natural or deliberately created patina of the object. We therefore recommend preserving the existing surface rather than attempting to make the metal bright or highly polished.
- Dust gently with a clean, soft and dry cloth or a very soft brush.
- Handle the object with clean, dry hands and avoid excessive handling.
- Do not use abrasive pads, metal brushes or aggressive cleaning products.
- Avoid commercial brass or metal polishes unless treatment has been recommended by a conservation specialist.
- Keep the object away from prolonged dampness and standing water.
Repeated polishing can gradually remove surface material, fine details and patina. In most cases, gentle dusting is all that is required.
WOODEN OBJECTS
Wood naturally responds to changes in temperature and humidity. Very dry conditions, excessive moisture and rapid environmental changes can contribute to cracking, movement or distortion over time.
- Keep wooden objects away from direct sunlight and strong heat sources.
- Avoid positioning them immediately next to radiators, fireplaces or heating vents.
- Protect them from excessive moisture and large fluctuations in humidity.
- Remove loose dust gently with a soft, dry brush or cloth.
- Do not soak unfinished wood or clean it with large amounts of water.
- Avoid furniture oils, silicone-based products and aggressive commercial polishes.
Natural marks, tool traces, small surface irregularities and variations in patina should not automatically be treated as damage. They are often part of the handmade appearance of the object.
DISPLAY
We recommend displaying your object in a stable indoor environment, away from prolonged direct sunlight, high humidity and locations where it can easily be knocked over.
If you are unsure about cleaning, restoring or repairing a piece, it is better to seek professional advice before altering its surface.