Maintenance notes

Maintenance of Dibble Sculptures

Bronze is an enduring medium that will last forever.

The surface patina (colouring) of Dibble bronze sculptures are protected by a layer of wax. This layer protects the sculpture from changing colour as a result of oxidisation (contact with air).

It is very easy to maintain the wax coating on Dibble sculpture. The wax gives the bronze a nice shine when polished or buffed, and continued polishing over time will further enhance the lustre of the surface.

If the sculpture includes any 24 carat gold gilding – the gilded surface does not require waxing and polishing, and can simply be dusted with a soft cloth.

Bronze - Waxing Guidelines

We recommend a bees-wax based wax for Dibble sculpture.

Apply a thin, even coat of wax with a soft cloth. Do not put the wax on too thickly – it is better to put on thin coats over a period of time. Leave the wax to harden for a few hours, and then polish with a soft cloth.

Outdoor sculptures should be waxed annually. Before waxing, first clean the sculpture with detergent and water (hosing off may be required).

Corten – Care Guidelines

Corten is a special variety of steel that forms an oxidised coating, and then does not oxidise further. For this reason, it is far more durable than other steels, oxidising at around 1-2 mm per 100 years depending on conditions. No maintenance care need be done on Corten, but avoid scratching the surface with sharp objects. Dirt or bird droppings may simply be washed off with detergent and water.