How to get rid of discolored protective waxy(?)layer on keris blades?

Green · 4th September 2023, 12:44 AM

Dear keris addicts

I have several keris that came from European (non keris culture) sources that have hardened layer of protective substance on the blade. This layer had darkened over time. An example is attached.

Can anyone suggest how I can get rid of this layer?
Many thanks in advance.

This is not a proper way of preserving keris (in our native culture) . The usual way is to have periodic washing of the blades if they become rusty and stain with warangan where applicable.

Gavin Nugent · 4th September 2023, 01:32 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Green

Dear keris addicts

I have several keris that came from European (non keris culture) sources that have hardened layer of protective substance on the blade. This layer had darkened over time. An example is attached.

Can anyone suggest how I can get rid of this layer?
Many thanks in advance.

This is not a proper way of preserving keris (in our native culture) . The usual way is to have periodic washing of the blades if they become rusty and stain with warangan where applicable.

Hi Nik,

I really cannot see the problem you are dealing with from this image alone.

Can you share detail of the dilemma?

I've found the ugliest of surfaces can be put back normal with a citric bath and a toothbrush.

Gavin

Rick · 4th September 2023, 03:08 AM

If this came out of an old collection I would suspect shellac, lacquer or varnish would be the coating applied to the wilah.

Green · 4th September 2023, 06:01 AM

Rick;

If it is any of those material, how can I get rid of it?

Green · 4th September 2023, 06:05 AM

Gavin;

If I want to try with citric bath, what is the dilution and how long I should keep it in?

I fear that the acid may corrode the edges of the blade.

A. G. Maisey · 4th September 2023, 07:11 AM

Before you try the suggestions below go to the kitchen sink and try scrubbing with hot water, dishwash detergent & a hard toothbrush.

Light acid baths are used to get rid of rust, mineral turpentine will remove wax, methelated spirits will remove old fashioned shellac, there are various types of varnish, paint stripper will remove most old types.

I suggest you start with the turps, if that doesn't work use metho, if metho doesn't work go to paint stripper.

Paint strippers are nasty substances, read & follow the instructions on the container it comes in.

For all three work slowly and carefully, demount hilt first.

4th September 2023, 12:44 AM	#1
Green Member Join Date: Apr 2015 Location: Malaysia Posts: 312	How to get rid of discolored protective waxy(?)layer on keris blades? Dear keris addicts I have several keris that came from European (non keris culture) sources that have hardened layer of protective substance on the blade. This layer had darkened over time. An example is attached. Can anyone suggest how I can get rid of this layer? Many thanks in advance. This is not a proper way of preserving keris (in our native culture) . The usual way is to have periodic washing of the blades if they become rusty and stain with warangan where applicable. Attached Images

4th September 2023, 03:08 AM	#3
Rick Vikingsword Staff Join Date: Nov 2004 Posts: 6,290	If this came out of an old collection I would suspect shellac, lacquer or varnish would be the coating applied to the wilah.

4th September 2023, 06:01 AM	#4
Green Member Join Date: Apr 2015 Location: Malaysia Posts: 312	Rick; If it is any of those material, how can I get rid of it?

4th September 2023, 06:05 AM	#5
Green Member Join Date: Apr 2015 Location: Malaysia Posts: 312	Gavin; If I want to try with citric bath, what is the dilution and how long I should keep it in? I fear that the acid may corrode the edges of the blade.

4th September 2023, 07:11 AM	#6
A. G. Maisey Member Join Date: May 2006 Posts: 6,877	Before you try the suggestions below go to the kitchen sink and try scrubbing with hot water, dishwash detergent & a hard toothbrush. Light acid baths are used to get rid of rust, mineral turpentine will remove wax, methelated spirits will remove old fashioned shellac, there are various types of varnish, paint stripper will remove most old types. I suggest you start with the turps, if that doesn't work use metho, if metho doesn't work go to paint stripper. Paint strippers are nasty substances, read & follow the instructions on the container it comes in. For all three work slowly and carefully, demount hilt first.