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The old lacquer that was sprayed on my Vic VI gold plated parts has darkened and discoloured over the years. I was going to use household ammonia to remove the old lacquer and brighten the finish. My question is how are the corner column capitals attached? I see two screws inside the corners of the case but they appear to secure the wooden columns.
Thanks
Pete

That aged gold looks better than bright and shiny gold... I would leave it as is...

First, the gold plated parts are not lacquered as gold does not tarnish. To remove the columns, you remove the slotted screws inside and once removed, the top and bottom will pull off from the center wood section.
Strong ammonina will clean the gold like new and will NOT cause the parts to be over polished in appearance but as they were intended. The stronger the ammonina, the better as it will not hurt the gold plating. Then rinse in cold water and dry well before reinstalling.
I would also do one at a time in order to put the columns back in the same corners.

Of course the result will be based on how much of the plating has survived.
Note, the base part is both mate and polished gold finish.

Why woud youi want to "brighten" the parts....let them shine with age...much more desirable

Much of what looks like ware on the finish or corrosion is I believe just the discolouration of the top coat. I am hoping that when that coating is removed it will look much nicer.

If that were mine, I wouldn't touch a thing. It's okay for old things to look old. But I realize that's not everyone's liking or approach. Let us know how it goes.

The parts look awesome as is. If it were mine, I would leave it alone and enjoy it.

That aged gold looks better than bright and shiny gold... I would leave it as is...

I totally agree! It's only original once, and it blends nicely with the condition of the finish.

Bob S.

I would leave well alone. It looks fantastic and naturally toned down with age as it should. It'll look like a repro if shone up within an inch of its life. Be pleased it hasn't worn or discoloured and enjoy it as it is.

I'm firmly in the leave it alone camp. Age adds character and you should not strip it away. Very desirable as it is.