Question 1

What is a brass sextant?

Accepted Answer

A brass sextant is a generally popular collectible for display on bookcases or mantels at home, and those created in Victorian, Industrial, and mid-century modern styles are sought with frequency. It is a traditional nautical instrument that was first used by sailors over 200 years ago to calculate global position by measuring the position of stars above the horizon. They are often made from brass, metal and wood. Shop a collection of antique, vintage, and contemporary brass sextants from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.

Question 2

What is a brass footman?

Accepted Answer

A brass footman is a stand that would be used to hold dishes in front of a fire, allowing them to stay warm before a meal was served on them. This antique piece of furniture was commonly made of brass, but some were crafted from other metals, such as steel. On 1stDibs, find a collection of authentic vintage brass footman pieces.

Question 3

What is a brass jardinière?

Accepted Answer

A brass jardinière is a planter crafted from brass. It is typically cylindrical in shape, and may feature side handles to make it easier to move, or feet to give it elevated style. It may also feature intricate designs. On 1stDibs, find an array of brass jardinières.

Question 4

What is a brass scale?

Accepted Answer

A brass scale is the one used in ancient times when bartering or trading various precious metal currencies. They are now frequently used as decorative objects for display in any home. This regal-looking collectible adds a touch of royalty to any mantel or console table. Find a variety of antique and vintage brass scales on 1stDibs.

Question 5

What is brass sextant?

Accepted Answer

A sextant is a nautical tool made from brass, used by sailors to measure the angle of the stars above the horizon to help calculate their ship’s global position. A sextant includes an index mirror, sun filters, a horizon mirror, an adjustable arc and a 2x magnifying scope. You’ll find a variety of sextants from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 6

What is solid brass worth?

Accepted Answer

The value of brass varies in price depending on the type. Red brass is usually more valuable than yellow brass, with red brass usually selling for approximately $1.75 / pound and yellow brass selling for around $1.55 / pound.

Question 7

How can I tell if brass is antique?

Accepted Answer

You can tell if brass is treated to appear antique by looking at the patina. Because real aged brass is often made of copper, the older it gets the more likely it is to have a greenish or bluish patina that you’d expect from copper. Modern brass that’s designed to look antique will have a brownish hue, not a blue-green one. Shop a collection of antique brass from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 8

How do I refurbish brass candlesticks?

Accepted Answer

To refurbish brass candlesticks, start by removing any wax. Then, combine one tablespoon of salt with a half cup of white vinegar and mix in white flour to create a paste. Use a soft cloth to cover the entire candlestick with the substance. Let it rest for 10 minutes before rinsing with warm water and drying with a soft cloth. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of antique and vintage brass candlesticks.

Question 9

How do you know if brass is antique?

Accepted Answer

Most antique brass items are solid brass. A great way of identifying solid brass antiques is by using a magnet. If you feel a pull, then the item is brass plated and not solid brass. Additionally, few brass antiques display stamps or maker's marks to depict the place and year of manufacturing. Find antique and vintage brass furniture and decorative objects on 1stDibs.

Question 10

Is a gong made out of brass?

Accepted Answer

Yes, gongs are made out of brass. The percussion instrument can also be made out of bronze and many other types of alloys. You can shop a collection of Chinese and antique gongs from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 11

Is brass used in weapons?

Accepted Answer

In some cases, yes. Brass is a metal that was used for gun bullets. However, the metal is malleable and at the time of its discovery, weapons were already being made of stronger iron and steel. You can find a selection of brass weaponry from some of the world’s top enthusiasts on 1stDibs.

Question 12

What color is antique brass?

Accepted Answer

Antique brass color is a shade mix of a rich, deep brown with golden undertones. The warm, low-luster finish is similar to natural brass. Check out 1stDibs for a range of antique brass decorative objects, furniture, pendants, and much more.

Question 13

Do brass beds tarnish?

Accepted Answer

Yes, a brass bed will tarnish unless it is properly cared for and lacquered. To prevent tarnishing, you can use linseed oil with a soft terry towel. On 1stDibs, you can find antique brass beds from top sellers around the world.

Question 14

How do you shine brass candlesticks?

Accepted Answer

To shine brass candlesticks, first determine whether they’re lacquered or brass-plated. If so, shine them with a soft cloth. If not, use a high quality brass polish according to directions — wash the brass in warm water with a drop of mild dish soap. You'll find a variety of solid brass candlesticks from some of the world's top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 15

What are brass andirons used for?

Accepted Answer

Brass andirons are not only beautiful to look at, but they keep logs from rolling out of the fireplace. They serve as a gate to keep the logs in place.

Question 16

Is antique brass strong?

Accepted Answer

Yes, antique brass is strong because it is made with zinc and copper. Brass is considered a strong and durable metal crafted to be long-lasting and withstand rust and corrosion. Shop a selection of antique and vintage brass items on 1stDibs.

Question 17

How can you tell if a brass lamp is vintage?

Accepted Answer

To tell if a brass lamp is vintage, you'll need to determine if it is 20 to 99 years old by conducting online research or having an expert, such as a certified appraiser or experienced antique dealer, evaluate it. If you prefer to do the research yourself, first look for the maker's markings. Then, consult trusted online resources to identify the maker and read further to find out when the company was active and manufacturing similar lamps. Checking the plug can also be helpful. If it has two prongs of the same size, you can conclude that your lamp was made in 1962 or before, as U.S. standards set that year required all lamps to feature polarized plugs with one large and one small prong. Keep in mind that it is possible to rewire a lamp, and some makers switched to polarized plugs before the standard was established, so the lack of a non-polarized plug doesn't necessarily mean a lamp isn't pre-1962. Find a large selection of vintage brass table lamps on 1stDibs.

Question 18

How do I care for an old brass bed?

Accepted Answer

To care for an old brass bed, buff and polish it regularly using a soft, dry cloth. To remove discoloration, moisten a sponge or soft rag with lemon juice or distilled vinegar and a sprinkle of salt. Then, use the cloth to rub the metal. Find a selection of brass beds on 1stDibs.

Question 19

How do you use a brass oil lamp?

Accepted Answer

How you use a brass oil lamp may vary based on the design of the piece. However, generally, you fill the lamp with vegetable, sesame or similar plant-based oil. Use tweezers to raise and lower the wick and trim away burned ends with scissors. Then, use a match to light the lamp. On 1stDibs, shop an assortment of oil lamps.

Question 20

How can I tell if a brass chandelier is antique?

Accepted Answer

There are a couple points to check in determining if your chandelier is antique. The drops were faceted on both sides, and there also may be daisy-shaped glass buttons. You can also shop a range of chandeliers from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

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