Renaissance wax is much more than a paste wax which would typically be used in woodworking as the final process in applying a finish to cabinetry, a carving or turned piece.

This wax has numerous uses as a protective barrier between the hazards that an article might encounter such as from moisture, grime, finger marks, food and drink spills and airborne environmental pollutants. You will see from the notes from the manufacturers below it is used for protecting marble, metal, leather, rubber, plastics and even paper and cardboard products.

Its origins lie in research into the preservation of priceless museum artifacts which are subject to further ageing.  The brief in part requires that it be removable and neutral on the pH scale - the scale which determines the relative acidity and alkalinity of a product.

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Manufacturer's Data Sheet

We, the makers of RENAISSANCE WAX POLISH, hold a Royal Warrant for the supply of this product which was formulated in the British Museum research laboratories in the early 1950's in response to a discussion amongst museum technicians at an international conference on fine-art conservation.

In accelerated ageing tests, the British Museum scientist found that all current commercial waxes based on the usual natural waxes (beeswax and carnauba wax) contained acids which, in time, could spoil original finishes on national historic collections of furniture. He rejected them all and investigated the new so-called 'fossil' or micro- crystalline waxes being refined out of crude oil. With their distinct characteristics depending on their geographical origins, the new 'man-made' waxes could be accurately blended to meet the needs of many industries, from cosmetics and pharmaceuticals to heavy engineering. Thus, the waxes combined Nature's best qualities with the advantages of modern technology. The blend which emerged from that research was 'designed' for long-term protection of all classes of museum exhibits. At last, museum technicians and others caring for important collections could use wax polish that neither caused future conservation problems nor detracted from the intrinsic values of their treasures.

Commercial production and distribution of the polish was ultimately undertaken in 1968 under its trade name 'Renaissance'. The product was quickly accepted in the international museum world and has become a universally respected standard conservation material - probably the most widely specified because of its almost unlimited uses. What makes Renaissance wax so different? It has a crystalline structure much finer than totally natural waxes, a property that confers a highly efficient moisture resistance. Countless statues and monuments in city streets are now protected by Renaissance wax from weathering corrosion. Arms and armour, steel and kitchen equipment of brass and copper in historic house museums, are kept bright and corrosion-free. When thinly applied and rubbed out to full lustre, the wax film is (and remains) glass-clear, with no discoloration either of the wax or the underlying surface.

Renaissance wax is free from acids (pH neutral) and will not damage even sensitive materials. For example, photographs for exhibition or of historic value are waxed to protect the image from the natural acidity of hand or environmental pollutants. The wax does not stain or darken even white paper. On furniture or wood carvings the wax delicately enhances grain or 'flame' patterns. It protects existing finishes such as French polish and it can be applied directly to sanded, unfinished hardwoods without need of sealers.

Waxing is the last process in handmade furniture and in the creation of wood, stone or metal sculptures. But it is the first aspect to be appreciated by hand and eye. The clarity and lustre of Renaissance wax makes an instant visual appeal. The silk-smooth touch of the matured wax film gives added pleasure, compared to the 'drag' of fingers leaving trails across the softer beeswax polishes. No matter how often the wax is used there is no loss of clarity, so that fine surface detail is never obscured. Repeated use of the wax deepens the lustre, reflecting more light from surfaces and making them more 'lively'.

The manufacturer receives hundreds of enquiries from around the world asking if Renaissance wax is suitable for a specific surface or project. Invariably the answer is 'yes'. Its unique qualities make it ideal for protecting all surfaces from environmental attack or handling. The wax is, for example, replacing the preservative oiling of arms and armour in museums. The wax film is hard and dry and does not, like oil, remain sticky and attract atmospheric acidity. Exhibits are more comfortable to handle. Greasy dirt on waxed surfaces is easily removed by gentle use of a soft rag dampened with paraffin; alternatively, warm water with a little liquid soap. Neither cleaning method will harm the wax film. Should surface repair or restoration be needed, Renaissance wax can be completely removed by rubbing with white spirit (a petroleum distillate). In professional fine-art conservation all treatments must be 'reversible' without damage to the original surface, to allow use of a better technique.

New ideas for using the wax continually reach the manufacturers. For instance, a model ship maker reported that dipping small-diameter wood drills into the wax almost eliminated drill breakage when working on hardwoods. Steel tools in the workshop no longer suffered from rusting. Paper kites and model aeroplanes can be waterproofed. The wax reduces 'drag' on model boats racing in the water. Leather shoes of all colours are protected positively with a brilliant shine by use of Renaissance wax. There is no 'fallout' of coloured waxes from brushes to spoil clothes.

Leatherwear & Marble

Ladies' leather/plastic handbags are proofed against rain. Marble is easily stained by contact with coloured liquids. The stains can quickly sink into the surface, which will usually need regrinding (expensive and inconvenient) to eliminate the marks. Makers and restorers of marble-top furniture appreciate the highly protective qualities of Renaissance wax to avoid staining.

Musical Instruments

Makers/restorers of violins, 'cellos and guitars use the wax to protect the varnish from players' natural acid contact and also from the sticky powdery residue of rosin on bow hair.

Automotive

On the motorcar, Renaissance produces a great shine with an unrivaled service life in all weathers. It can be used successfully on all surfaces: coach work paint, bright metals, rubber or plastic seals. Inside the car the wax is perfect everywhere, especially on leather upholstery. The wax's micro-crystalline structure has amazing plasticity. The dry film 'flows' under pressure and will not fracture when the seat is sat on.

When applied correctly - in thin layers - the wax is extremely economical in use, so that its initial cost compares very favourably with ordinary commercial waxes. In room temperature, with the can firmly capped, Renaissance has a shelf life of many years. This is due mainly to the extraordinary solvent-retention power of the wax. It will remain in perfect condition long after other waxes have caked hard and become useless.