A VERY RARE TIBETAN SILVER-MOUNTED MATCHLOCK GUN (ME-DA)

Philip · 23rd December 2015, 04:24 PM

Congratulations! A fine example that's complete down to the leather pan-cover which is often missing. Nice patina and signs of wear indicating a "working" piece that was nonetheless well-maintained in a harsh environment. I agree that a conservative approach is called for, overcleaning is the worst thing you can give to these things. Just do what's necessary to keep the leather from drying out and flaking, and carefully rub off any spots of visible active rust but leave the underlying patina. A good quality wax is often better than oil on the iron parts since it doesn't attract dust, won't rub off on hands nor get onto the leather and possibly stain or rot it.

23rd December 2015, 04:24 PM	#7
Philip Member Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: California Posts: 1,036	looks good the way it is Congratulations! A fine example that's complete down to the leather pan-cover which is often missing. Nice patina and signs of wear indicating a "working" piece that was nonetheless well-maintained in a harsh environment. I agree that a conservative approach is called for, overcleaning is the worst thing you can give to these things. Just do what's necessary to keep the leather from drying out and flaking, and carefully rub off any spots of visible active rust but leave the underlying patina. A good quality wax is often better than oil on the iron parts since it doesn't attract dust, won't rub off on hands nor get onto the leather and possibly stain or rot it.