The Return of Master Bronze Castor Bob Page of Pagebronze.com

Bob Page and his wife Kathy are the artisans behind the Silpi Bronze Memorial. Bob has lovingly sacrificed more of his time to come back to the monastery and teach church member Rajkumar Manickam the art of restoration, cleaning and upkeep of the statues. We are so grateful to Bob and Rajkumar for this wonderful seva.

We would like to give a public service anouncement: Please do not try this cleaning and restoration on your own artifacts or bronze statues. We have been warned that the improper use of the materials and steps can ruin said possessions.

Bob arrives at the monastery and dutifully shows his appreciation to Lord Ganesha, the Remover of Obstacles.

Paramacharya and Bob meet and greet. An explanation is given for the work ahead.

Together Bob and Kathy Page have a well rounded knowledge of Bronze Casting by having been cross trained to do all aspects of foundry work. Bob has 37 years of metal expertise. He has managed 2 Full Service Foundries. He has been self employed since 1997. Bob and Kathy specialize in quality craftsmanship in their particular areas of expertise. They offer chasing from Miniature to Monumental works of art.

Rajkumar Manickam pauses for a quick shot, although whenever you see Rajkumar, he is smiling just like this

Some of the materials used for this long, two day job.

Proper cleaning of the bronze with a pressure washer and fine tooth brush.

First step: water

A special soap is used on the bronze. Most debri is finished off with this step.

A rinse for the statues

Everything must be bone dry before the next step. Hand drying and a few hours of rest.

Now were ready to fire, wax, polish and buff. Thats right, I said fire.

A propane torch is used to heat up the sculpture. This is a complicated step and one of the reasons for the warning in the description of the post.

Rajkumar is learning as much as he can, next time he will not have Bob with him

Firing is complete and its time to wax. A special wax is used and is unkown to the writer. Sorry! Bob kept details to a minimum. For cleaning and restoration of your bronze, please call a professional.

The wax and buff has really brought an amazing shine back into these sculptures

Ideally bronze gets cleaned and restored like this four times a year

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