How to get rid of discolored protective waxy(?)layer on keris blades?
 

Dear keris addicts

I have several keris that came from European (non keris culture) sources that have hardened layer of protective substance on the blade. This layer had darkened over time. An example is attached.

Can anyone suggest how I can get rid of this layer?
Many thanks in advance.

This is not a proper way of preserving keris (in our native culture) . The usual way is to have periodic washing of the blades if they become rusty and stain with warangan where applicable.

Hi Nik,

I really cannot see the problem you are dealing with from this image alone.

Can you share detail of the dilemma?

I've found the ugliest of surfaces can be put back normal with a citric bath and a toothbrush.

Gavin

If this came out of an old collection I would suspect shellac, lacquer or varnish would be the coating applied to the wilah.

Rick;

If it is any of those material, how can I get rid of it?

Gavin;

If I want to try with citric bath, what is the dilution and how long I should keep it in?

I fear that the acid may corrode the edges of the blade.

Before you try the suggestions below go to the kitchen sink and try scrubbing with hot water, dishwash detergent & a hard toothbrush.

Light acid baths are used to get rid of rust, mineral turpentine will remove wax, methelated spirits will remove old fashioned shellac, there are various types of varnish, paint stripper will remove most old types.

I suggest you start with the turps, if that doesn't work use metho, if metho doesn't work go to paint stripper.

Paint strippers are nasty substances, read & follow the instructions on the container it comes in.

For all three work slowly and carefully, demount hilt first.

Alan;

I'll give it a try with the hot water and detergent first but I doubt it will come off.

I may go with methelated spirit if that don't work out .

you can try with Nitro solvent.

I have had 3 times lacquered krises in my possession and I have had great results with boiling water. In fact I boiled the whole kris (blade alone obviously!) in salty water (it increases the boiling point temperature). It takes only few minutes and you see small bubbles forming under the lacquer. A soft brush (old toothbrush) removes the lacquer.


I spoke about this in a thread I created


http://www.vikingsword.com/vb/showthread.php?t=28617

Many thanks for this Milandro.
I will try this (same as Alan's suggestion) . Failing which I'll try the chemicals next.

And thanks for the link too.