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04:47
By Amanda Bean


A verdigris patina develops over time on metals like bronze, brass and copper when they are exposed to air or water. These metals develop a layer of protection that changes their color completely. An example of this is the Statue of Liberty in the United States. Decorators and homeowners alike are in love with this aged look and today there are products on the market that can be used to create it without having to wait for years.

Artists long ago made use of the vibrant green of verdigris to make pigment for their paintings. Copper plates were placed in a pot of hot vinegar and the green crust that formed was scraped off for making of pigment. However, this pigment was unstable and it fell out of use when more stable pigments were developed.

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.

The process of oxidation is an organic one and no two patinas look exactly alike. Variations occur in the chemical reaction according to conditions under which it takes place and the techniques used. This is part of the charm as each object looks different.

The color of the patina depends on the type of metal and the length of time it has been exposed. Bronze often develops a blue-black color while copper usually produces a blue-green color. Various methods can be used to hasten the development of these colors, such as use of heat and vinegar.

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.

As with any product using chemicals, care needs to be exercised when using these products. However, as long as instructions are followed carefully, there should be no problem. A tip is to always pour product into a disposable container for use so that one does not have to dip an applicator into the bottle.

A verdigris patina is appreciated today for its uniqueness and the way it contrasts beautifully with contemporary materials. All the ways used to create such an effect in the past are no longer necessary. Products are readily available that can eliminate time, making the process an effortless one.




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