Cleaning copper habaki

[Mark S.]

I posted this habaki in the cat scratch thread. I love the patina of the old copper but it appears it is also quite dirty especially in the deeper crevices.  I do not want shiny!  Should I leave it be (does the ‘dark’ add character?) or can soap and a very soft brush (maybe a paint brush?) get rid of the dirt and leave the ‘been there’ patina?  Any other ways to clean up copper but not too much?

thanks

 

[roger dundas]

Now that is a good question and looking forward to the responses as well .

Roger j

[b.hennick]

My first go to is foam soap used for children. It is gentle and has no additives. I also use an old soft clean toothbrush. Emphasis on clean as you do not want to use any abrasives. 

[Mark S.]

Before:

 

 

After: a soak in mild detergent, wash with microfiber cloth, some light scrubbing with very tiny modeling swabs, a little work with wood toothpicks, and rubbing with the 99% alcohol and the tiny swabs, I think it came out ok.  I really tried not to overdo and figured any dirt remaining needs to be there.  

 

[Spartancrest]

Could this fuchi be a match to your habaki? I realize the stacked stone pattern is not as deep.  https://www.jauce.com/auction/s1045753360