Artisan Preservation

Artisan Craft Care Guide

Our master artisans share their ancestral wisdom and practical advice so that your authentic pieces remain as vibrant and breathtaking as the day they were created.

Ayacucho Retablos

Materials: Cedar wood, potato paste, gypsum & natural pigments

Dust gently using a soft, natural bristle brush (e.g. camel hair or soft makeup brush). Never use damp cloths on the sculpted figures.
Keep the outer doors closed when displaying in areas prone to airborne dust or pollen.
Place away from direct sunlight and humidity to protect original tempera colors from fading or cracking.
Always lift the retablo by supporting the bottom base with both hands, never by the decorative carved pediment.

Chulucanas & Quinua Ceramics

Materials: Kiln-fired clay, mango-leaf smoke reduction & slip glazes

Clean with a soft dry microfiber cloth. A lightly damp cloth can be used on glazed surfaces, but avoid harsh detergents.
Do not submerge unglazed or smoked pieces in standing water, as natural terracotta can absorb moisture.
Display away from humidifiers and exterior weather elements to preserve the glossy negative-smoked finish.
Use protective felt pads underneath vases when displaying on delicate glass or polished wood furniture.

Sarhua Painted Boards (Tablas)

Materials: Cedar or Molle wood & earth mineral pigments

Dust lightly in a downward motion with a dry electrostatic duster or dry microfiber cloth.
Avoid sudden temperature swings and keep away from air conditioning vents or heaters that could warp the wood.
Hang securely using two balanced anchor points on solid walls, out of direct sun exposure.
Never apply chemical varnishes, polishers, or household sprays to the painted surface.

Alpaca & Sheep Wool Textiles

Materials: Fine alpaca fleece & plant-dyed sheep wool

Spot clean spills immediately by blotting with a clean dry towel. Never rub vigorously.
For general cleaning, hand wash in cold water using gentle wool detergent, or seek specialized eco-friendly dry cleaning.
Dry flat on a clean dry towel away from direct sunlight. Never wring, twist, or hang wet textiles.
Store folded in breathable cotton bags with natural cedar blocks or lavender to ward off moths naturally.

Huamanga Stone (Alabaster)

Materials: Natural translucent alabaster from Huamanga

Handle with clean, dry hands. Avoid lotions, colored oils, or grease, as porous alabaster can absorb liquids.
Wipe with a clean dry microfiber cloth. Never use acidic or vinegar-based household cleaners.
Position on sturdy, level surfaces away from edges where vibration or accidental bumps might cause chips.
Keep indoors at moderate room humidity to prevent surface crystal oxidation.