Real metal with a patina lives differently than a print or a foil — and that's precisely why it requires different care. This isn't an effort, but rather a natural characteristic of a material designed to stay with you for years. In this guide, we explain what we use to protect our surfaces (wax or lacquer), how to care for each of them in daily life, and why real copper, brass, and stainless steel are in a completely different league than a decoration that merely imitates metal.
Why real metal requires different care
A canvas print, a foil, or a laminate with a copper look is nothing more than a graphic layer on a neutral backing. There is no metal there — just an image of metal. Our surfaces are the opposite: solid sheets of real copper, brass, or stainless steel, where color and depth are created directly in the metal — through controlled chemical reactions, fire, and natural oxidation. We don't paint or print anything. Therefore, the surface has a physical depth, reacts to light, and changes depending on the time of day.
The consequence is simple: Because it is real metal, we care for it like real metal — and not like a print. Every surface is sealed in our workshop before it reaches you, so that the patina is protected and daily cleaning is uncomplicated. The type of sealant depends on the product — and that's exactly what this guide is about.
Two sealants: wax and lacquer
We protect our surfaces in two ways, depending on how a product is used.
Wax provides a soft, natural finish that emphasizes the depth of the patina and preserves its "living" character. To protect waxed surfaces, we use Renaissance Wax — a microcrystalline wax developed by restorers at the British Museum and used worldwide to protect historical metal and patinated objects. It is a museum-quality wax: it does not yellow, does not change the color of the patina, and forms a thin, breathable protective layer. We choose it where a natural surface appearance is paramount.
Lacquer — a high-quality, completely transparent clear lacquer — forms a harder, more resistant layer. It withstands touch, dust, and everyday wear better, which is why we choose it for freely hanging or touched surfaces, as well as for large wall panels. The layer is completely colorless: it does not change the color of the patina, the optical effect remains natural — the surface is merely less susceptible to marks.
What is sealed with what
To leave no doubt — here is our complete overview of surface sealing:
- Metal tiles — sealed with wax (Renaissance Wax).
- Framed wall art — sealed with wax (Renaissance Wax).
- Frameless wall art (hanging sets — three-part triptychs and four-part compositions) — sealed with lacquer (acrylic lacquer).
- Wall panels — sealed with lacquer (acrylic lacquer).
The simple rule of thumb: What is framed — wax; what hangs unframed as a set, as well as wall panels — lacquer. If you are unsure how your specific product is sealed, please contact us — we will check your order details.
Daily care — easier than you think
Whether your product is waxed or lacquered — daily care is the same and very simple:
- Wipe the surface with a soft, dry cloth (ideally microfiber).
- If necessary, use a slightly damp cloth and then wipe dry.
- Clean gently, without strong pressure or scrubbing.
Avoid:
- Abrasive cleaners and rough sponges,
- acidic cleaners (e.g., vinegar, descalers),
- chlorine or ammonia-containing agents,
- aggressive household chemicals and polishing pastes.
These agents can damage the protective layer or alter the patina. They are not necessary for real metal with patina — a gentle, dry wipe is sufficient.
Refreshing wax (waxed products)
Waxed surfaces — metal tiles and framed wall art — can be refreshed from time to time by applying a thin layer of wax yourself. We recommend the same Renaissance Wax that we use in the workshop: apply a small amount with a soft, lint-free cloth, spread thinly, let it sit for a few minutes, and then gently polish to a shine with a dry cloth. This restores the depth of the patina and refreshes the protective layer.
Lacquered surfaces — wall panels and frameless sets (triptychs, four-part compositions) — do not need to be waxed. The lacquer is a durable protective layer that you can simply maintain by gentle wiping.