The Uniqueness Of A Verdigris Patina

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By Amanda Bean


Metal with a verdigris patina has an aged beauty that is unique. This protective layer of oxidation is formed over metal like copper, brass and bronze through the years as it is exposed to the air. Products have been developed today that can speed up this natural process. These chemical solutions are able to add patinas to surfaces quickly and efficiently.

Metals like copper and brass were used frequently in the past to create a variety of objects, from pipes to garden statues. All these objects show signs of weathering after years that is hard to imitate. The popularity of this aged finish has lead to many faux painting techniques being devised to recreate the look, some of which are fairly successful. However, the true finish can only be obtained by the oxidation of metals.

In the past, the green color of verdigris was used as a paint color by artists. The way they hastened oxidation was by hanging copper objects in a pot of hot vinegar that was sealed. Pigment was made out of the green crust that formed. The use of this pigment continued until more stable ones were developed.

One of the attractions of a finish like this is that no two objects turn out exactly the same. The finish varies depending on different factors such as the type of metal and the techniques used to accelerate aging. The variations of tone and color provide a great foil to contemporary materials and give respect to days gone by.

At different stages in the aging process, different colors are achieved. Using products available to accelerate aging, one can achieve the brown or green color, or anywhere in between. Copper becomes a lovely blueish-green color with age and bronze more of a blueish-black.

A variety of techniques are still used today to age metals faster. Fortunately, a technique used in the Middle Ages involving burying copper strips attached to a wooden block in some dung for a couple of weeks is no longer necessary. Today one can simply apply one of the products available at local and online stores to produce the aged effect quickly and efficiently.

Many different applicators can be used like brushes, sponges or even cotton wool. One can experiment with different methods of application too. Some individuals prefer to use many thin coats to build up the effect gradually and others apply a few thick layers.

Dipping the applicator directly into the bottle of product is not recommended. It is much better to pour out an amount into another disposable container for use. Other tips are to make sure that the surface is properly cleaned prior to treatment and to wash hands carefully after application.

A verdigris patina is extremely popular today. Objects are aged to provide a contrast with contemporary materials used, creating an eclectic look and introducing a sense of history and interest. Products are available at local and online stores that can help one create genuine patinas as quickly and efficiently as possible.




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