Renaissance
wax - Probably the finest polish available
What is 'Renaissance
Wax' and why should I buy some?
Renaissance wax polish was originally formulated In the British
Museum research laboratories in the early 1950's, in response to
a discussion amongst museum technicians at an international conference
on fine-art conservation.
In accelerated ageing tests, the British Museum scientist found
that all current commercial waxes based on the usual natural waxes
(beeswax and carnauba wax) contained acids which. In time, could
spoil original finishes on national historic collections of furniture.
He rejected them all and investigated the new so-called 'fossil'
or micro- crystalline waxes being refined out of crude oil. With
their distinct characteristics depending on their geographical origins,
the new 'man-made' waxes could be accurately blended to meet the
needs of many industries, from cosmetics and pharmaceuticals to
heavy engineering. Thus, the waxes combined Nature's best qualities
with the advantages of modern technology.
The blend, which emerged from that research, was 'designed' for
long- term protection of all classes of museum exhibits. At last,
museum technicians and others caring for important collections could
use wax polish that neither caused future conservation problems
nor detracted from the intrinsic values of their treasures. The
London-based company Picreator Enterprises Ltd. under its trade
name 'Renaissance' ultimately undertook commercial production and
distribution of the polish in 1968. The product was quickly accepted
in the international museum world and has become a universally respected
standard conservation material - probably the most widely specified
because of its almost unlimited uses.
What makes Renaissance wax so different?
It has a crystalline structure much finer than totally natural waxes,
a property that confers a highly efficient moisture resistance.
Countless statues and monuments in city streets are now protected
by Renaissance wax from weathering corrosion. Arms and armour, steel
and kitchen equipment of brass and copper in historic house museums
are kept bright and corrosion-free.
When thinly applied and rubbed out to full lustre, the wax film
is (and remains) glass-clear, with no discoloration either of the
wax or the underlying surface. Renaissance wax is free from acids
(pH neutral) and will not damage even sensitive materials. For example,
photographs for exhibition or of historic value are waxed to protect
the image from the natural acidity of hand or environmental pollutants.
The wax does not stain or darken even white paper.
On furniture or woodcarvings the wax delicately enhances
grain or 'flame' patterns. It protects existing finishes such as
French polish and it can be applied directly to sanded, unfinished
hardwoods without need of sealers. Waxing is the last process in
hand-made furniture and in the creation of wood, stone or metal
sculptures. But it is the first aspect to be appreciated
by hand and eye. The clarity and lustre of Renaissance wax makes
an instant visual appeal. The silk-smooth touch of the matured wax
film gives added pleasure, compared to the 'drag' of fingers leaving
trails across the softer beeswax polishes.
No matter how often the wax is used there is no loss of clarity,
so that fine surface detail is never obscured. Repeated use of the
wax deepens the lustre, reflecting more light from surfaces and
making them more lively.
Picreator receives hundreds of enquiries from around the world asking
if Renaissance wax is suitable for a specific surface or project.
Invariably the answer is 'yes'. Its unique qualities make it ideal
for protecting all surfaces from environmental attack or handling.
The wax is, for example, replacing the preservative oiling of arms
and armour in museums. The wax film is hard and dry and does not,
like oil, remain sticky and attract atmospheric acidity. Exhibits
are more comfortable to handle.
Greasy dirt on waxed surfaces is easily removed by gentle use of
a soft rag dampened with paraffin; alternatively, warm water with
a little liquid soap. Neither cleaning method will harm the wax
film.
Should surface repair or restoration be needed. Renaissance wax
can be completely removed by rubbing with white spirit (a petroleum
distillate). In professional fine-art conservation all treatments
must be 'reversible' without damage to the original surface, to
allow use of a better technique.
New ideas for using the wax continually reach the manufacturers.
For instance, a model ship maker reported that dipping small-diameter
wood drills into the wax almost eliminated drill breakage when working
on hardwoods. Steel tools in the workshop no longer suffered
from rusting.
Paper kites and model aeroplanes can be waterproofed. The
wax reduces 'drag' on model boats racing in the water.
Leather shoes of all colours are protected positively with
a brilliant shine by use of Renaissance wax. There is no 'fall-out'
of coloured waxes from brushes to spoil clothes. Ladles' leather/plastic
handbags are proofed against rain.
Marble is easily stained by contact with coloured liquids.
The stains can quickly sink into the surface, which will usually
need re-grinding (expensive and Inconvenient) to eliminate the marks.
Makers and restorers of marble-top furniture appreciate the highly
protective qualities of Renaissance wax to avoid staining.
Makers/restorers of violins, 'cellos and guitars use the
wax to protect the varnish from players' natural acid contact and
also from the sticky powdery residue of rosin on bow hair.
On the motorcar. Renaissance produces a great shine with
an unrivalled service life in all weathers. It can be used successfully
on all surfaces: coachwork paint, bright metals, rubber or plastic
seals. Inside the car the wax is perfect everywhere, especially
on leather upholstery. The wax's micro-crystalline structure has
amazing plasticity. The dry film 'flows' under pressure and will
not fracture when the seat is sat on.
When applied correctly - in thin layers - the wax is extremely economical
in use, so that Its Initial cost compares very favourably with ordinary
commercial waxes. In room temperature, with the can firmly capped,
Renaissance has a shelf life of several years. This is due mainly
to the extraordinary solvent-retention power of the wax. It will
remain in perfect condition long after other waxes have caked hard
and become useless.
Available from Peter
Vernon (SW agent)
Tel: - 01297 551004.
Email: - sales@petervernon.co.uk
Website: - www.petervernon.co.uk
Address: - Whitwell
Cottage, Whitwell Lane, Colyford, Colyton, Devon EX24 6HS
