Hello Alan, Apparently you responded to my request for information while I was typing my reply to Kai. After hearing what you have added I am now extremely happy that I had taken the chance in purchasing this piece. I never expected it to be anywhere near as old as you believe it could possibly be. Do you by chance have a photo of the dress you are speaking of that you could post here as an example? Unfortunately a complete cleaning and re-staining in the traditional way is not an option for me at this time, that is unless you might like to take on this job yourself? I have done normal cleaning and etching, but would not what want to use this in my first attempt at this process.
Thank you very much for your most welcomed response to my request for information on this piece.
Best,
Robert