Last Updated: September 2026 · The Old Antiquarian Mould, rust and insect pests are among the most worrying problems an antique owner can discover. They can affect furniture, books, photographs, textiles, militaria, toys, silver, decorative objects and entire inherited collections. The good news is that serious deterioration rarely begins without warning. A new powdery deposit on metal, a musty smell, fresh holes in wood, loose fibres beneath a textile or a patch of mould can all indicate that storage conditions need attention. The important principle is to identify the problem before treating the object. Mould is not removed in the same way as corrosion, an old woodworm hole does not…

Last Updated: September 2026 · The Old Antiquarian Moving or storing antiques safely requires more than wrapping everything in paper and placing it in a box. Different materials respond differently to pressure, vibration, moisture and temperature, while fragile handles, frames, old repairs and loose components can turn a minor movement into serious damage. The safest approach is to begin with the object itself: its weight, materials, construction, condition and vulnerable areas. Packing should then prevent movement, abrasion, impact and unnecessary pressure while keeping the object easy to identify and unpack safely. This guide explains how to pack antiques for moving or storage, including porcelain, glass, paintings, furniture, books, textiles, jewellery,…

Last Updated: September 2026 · The Old Antiquarian When people discover an old object, the first instinct is often to clean it, polish it, repair it or make it look more presentable before asking for an opinion. In many cases, that can be exactly the wrong approach. Original surfaces, patina, maker’s marks, old labels, repairs, packaging and provenance can all provide important clues about an object’s age, authenticity, maker, use, condition and history. Before valuation or sale, the safest first step is usually simple: document the antique carefully before changing it. Cleaning, restoration or replacement of parts should only be considered once the object’s materials, construction and condition are better…

Last Updated: September 2026 · The Old Antiquarian Antique decorative objects are often more complex than they first appear. A single piece may combine bronze, brass, glass, ceramic, wood, stone, enamel, gilding, paint, textile, leather or old adhesives. Because these materials age in different ways, there is no single storage method that is suitable for every decorative antique. A heavy bronze sculpture and a delicate gilt porcelain figure may sit on the same shelf, yet their risks and storage needs can be very different. The safest approach is to understand what the object is made from, which parts are most vulnerable and what could be lost through impact, moisture, abrasion,…

Last Updated: September 2026 · The Old Antiquarian Antique decorative objects can be deceptively complex. A single object may combine bronze, brass, glass, ceramic, wood, stone, paint, gilding, enamel, textile and old adhesives. Because these materials age differently, there is no single storage method that is suitable for every decorative antique. The safest approach is to preserve the original surface, prevent impact and abrasion, minimise dust and moisture, and avoid unnecessary cleaning or restoration. This guide explains how to store decorative antiques safely while protecting their condition, craftsmanship and historical character. Quick Answer: How Should Antique Decorative Objects Be Stored? Store antique decorative objects in a clean, dry, stable and…

Last Updated: September 2026 · The Old Antiquarian Militaria and military collectibles are rarely made from a single material. A uniform may combine wool, cotton, leather, metal buttons, embroidery and paper labels, while a helmet can contain steel, paint, leather, textile, cork, felt and metal fittings. This makes military collections more difficult to store than they first appear. A method that protects the metal component may not be ideal for the textile, leather or paper attached to it. The safest approach is to preserve original materials, markings, construction, surface, insignia, documents and provenance while reducing exposure to moisture, strong light, pests, dust, abrasion and unnecessary handling. Quick Answer: How Should…

Last Updated: September 2026 · The Old Antiquarian Military medals, orders and decorations are more complex than simple pieces of metal. Many combine silver, bronze, gilt surfaces, enamel, silk ribbons, clasps, suspension systems, miniature devices and fitted presentation cases. Their historical importance can also extend far beyond the decoration itself. An original ribbon, recipient’s name, award certificate, photograph, service record or presentation case may help explain who received the award, when it was issued and how the group was preserved. Good storage therefore means protecting both the physical medal and the evidence connected with it. This guide explains how to store military medals and orders while preserving their surfaces, ribbons,…

Last Updated: September 2026 · The Old Antiquarian Antique jewellery and silver objects can survive for generations when they are stored carefully. However, precious metals, gemstones, pearls, enamel, ivory substitutes, glass, adhesives, fabrics and old settings do not all respond in the same way to moisture, chemicals, pressure, abrasion and temperature changes. Good storage should protect the object without over-cleaning it, polishing away original surfaces or placing unnecessary stress on fragile settings and components. The aim is not to make old jewellery or silver look new. The aim is to preserve its original surface, marks, construction, patina, stones, settings and provenance. Quick Answer: How Should Antique Jewellery and Silver Be…

Last Updated: September 2026 · The Old Antiquarian Antique rugs, historic garments and old textiles are among the most vulnerable objects in a collection. Fibres can weaken with age, dyes can fade, folds can become permanent, pests can cause hidden damage and unsuitable cleaning can permanently alter historic material. Good storage should protect textiles from light, moisture, heat, dust, insects, pressure and unnecessary handling while preserving original construction, embroidery, labels, linings, repairs and provenance. The safest approach is usually preventive: stable storage, appropriate support, careful handling and as little intervention as possible. Quick Answer: How Should Antique Textiles Be Stored? Store antique textiles in a clean, cool, dry and stable…