Alabaster help?

21 years ago

35 years ago my mother bought a collection of fine alabaster plates which were very intricately carved into various Madonna type scenes. The plates were bought for me specifically as an "heirloom" (whatever that means.) Anyway, 35 years later I've finally settled down and bought my dream home. I'm considering asking her for them now and displaying them, but I have a few concerns. How will I clean them? Some web sites say a damp sponge, some say no, no, no water of any kind. The plates have been kept in their original boxes under Mom's bed all this time. Presumably they are worth some money now, and perhaps their boxes is where they should stay...but it seems like such a shame for such beautiful peices of art to lay dormant under an old woman's bed forever. On the other hand, I would hate myself forever if I accidently ruined one or all of them. What if I drop one and break it!!!! I'm curious what you would do?

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Comments (5)

BDnBAMA
21 years ago
broomhildah, I can only speak for myself but I am one who just doesn't see the point of having something that you have to keep put away & never see. I would bring the plates out & display them taking all the care I could to protect them. Consult an expert as to cleaning them & enjoy them. I have things that my mother has given me, lots of crystal,& wouldn't part with them for anything but if something should happen to one of them, yes, I would be sad but it wouldn't be the end of the world. I also have a doll collection & everyone says " leave them in the box they will be more valuable if you should ever want to sell them". Not me, I turned one of my bedrooms into a nursery & filled it up with my dolls. Enjoy you goodies! Betty
broomhildah
Original Author
21 years ago
Thanks Betty for your good advice. I believe I'm going to buy a China Hutch to display them, which will help to keep them dust-free(er). I wonder where someone might consult an "alabaster expert" though?
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thorspippi
21 years ago
I found this:

Care of Alabaster
Yard_Mom
21 years ago
And if you do accidently break one, put the pieces in a stepping stone in the garden.
maryenc
20 years ago
I have heard that you must wrap the items very securely. As far as cleaning.. you should use a small brush. Do not use water or any other liquid as it may stain permanently.

It's nice that you will be displaying these items in your "dream" house. I also have a dream house in wine country. My husband and I are very happy in our home also. Good luck!