Cleaning wax

A client recently brought to me a life-size wax figure that is very
dusty. The piece dates to c. 1850 and appears to be in its original
glass case (it is an instructive medical model depicting child
birth) yet we are considering opening the case if it is possible to
improve the appearance.  My client has two other pieces which are
very clean and show no dust.  I am assuming this model was displayed
in the open air originally as the surface looks very similar to
dirty marble sculptures that have suffered from too many inquisitive
visitors touching them.

Not having opened the case I can not comment on the true
characteristics of the surface.  Does anyone have any experience
with a similar piece or possible suggestions on making the piece
more presentable?  The client and I are assuming the piece will go
untouched but if there is a way to clean it we would be interested
in hearing your suggestions.

Tom Riddolls
Conservator/Curator
Loyalist Museum
Adolphustown, ON


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                  Conservation DistList Instance 21:54
                  Distributed: Friday, April 11, 2008
                       Message Id: cdl-21-54-029
                                  ***