Hi again Gene,
I would have thought that it was more likely that the base metal would be brass rather than bronze, but you have the item to hand so can better tell. Some tips which might help re cleaning etc. These are my opinions only so "read between the lines".
Don't ever use Silvo to clean these sort of things for exactly the reason you state----residue in the etching. I usually use (I think you should be able to get it in the UK) Goddards Silver Cloth and if I really need to get into tight spots, an old toothbrush, with a SMALL bit of Goddards Silver Dip. Don't go overboard as a bit of tarnish can give the item a nice "old" look.
As far as the material section goes, I would NOT remove what is there already, as you don't know what it is holding together underneath! I would be inclined to recover it over the top.
You have asked in my post about the significance of the "onion" finials on the scabbard.
I will reply seperately on this.
Regards Stuart
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