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This is a magnificently beautiful and highly detailed, large-scale vintage mermaid sculpture cast in iron.
She is substantial and an extremely heavy piece with strong sculptural detail and surface patina consistent with older cast iron. The casting quality and scale suggest it was produced as an architectural or statement decorative object rather than a small interior figurine. 1890-1910 ..It’s one of the largest we’ve ever seen.
Her upward gaze and serene expression gives the impression of a subtly mystical, almost magical presence that draws the viewer in. This will add energy and mystery to any room in your house.
It a great piece for any upscale collection.
Approximate dimensions:
Overall length: approx. 36–37 inches
Upper torso height: approx. 14 inches
Width across arms: approx. 12 inches
Measurements are approximate.
No artist or foundry marks are visible. No repairs or structural breaks observed and I included many pictures for review. Surface wear and patina are consistent with age and material.
Please review all photos carefully, as they are part of the description.
Due to size and weight, local pickup is preferred. Freight or blanket-wrap shipping may be arranged at buyer’s expense.
Her soft, understated sheen is the result of a light tung oil application, a traditional finish used in metal conservation to protect cast iron while preserving the natural surface and patina.
To further explain:
Museum-safe conservation method was used…
Rust was removed by…..
Tools:
• Brass bristle brush (not steel)
• Wooden toothpicks or bamboo skewers
• Stiff nylon brush
• Shop vacuum
How:
• Brush lightly, working with the surface, not against it
• Focused only on loose rust and dirt
• Leave darkened, compacted areas intact to keep original patina.
Next was Rust stabilization ……
We wanted to halt active corrosion, but not strip the metal.
We used …
Tannic acid solution which Converts red rust (Fe₂O₃) into stable black ferric tannate
We …..
• Applied with a small brush
• Let it react (surface will darken slightly)
• Wiped excess off after drying
Which this method is reversible, non-destructive, and accepted by conservators.
⸻
Lastly we Neutralize & dry
• Wipe with a cloth dampened with distilled water
• Dry immediately with a hair dryer or heat gun on LOW
The Protective finish was tung oil and
🥇 Renaissance Wax because its properties of….
• Microcrystalline wax (used by museums)
• Invisible, non-yellowing
• Preserves patina
We Applied a thin coat and we buffed ightly after 15 minutes.
