Preservation · 5 min
Caring for enamel and inlaid metalwork
Editorial team · updated 2026-09-29
Dust, don't polish
Use a soft dry brush or cloth. Metal polish removes patina, rounds engraved lines and can stain enamel and turquoise.
Keep water away
Do not soak pieces. Water can get under chipped enamel and loosen turquoise set in compound.
Handle with care
Hold vessels by the body, not the rim or handle. Enamel chips on impact and cannot be simply repainted.
Related photographs
Representative photographs, not of any specific catalogued object. Sources on the credits page.