patinate
Acquire surface oxidation
To patinate is to acquire or apply a patina—the greenish film that forms on copper and bronze through oxidation, or more broadly, any surface alteration from age and use.
The verb usually appears in its past participle: a beautifully patinated bronze, leather patinated by decades of handling.
Objects that patinate gain character and authenticity, which is why collectors prize natural patina over pristine surfaces.
Combine with oxygen
- tarnishOxidation discoloration on metal
- corrosionChemical wearing away
- rustIron oxide coating
- verdigrisCopper oxidation's green crust
copper · bronze · brass · alloy · electrochemical · redox · anodize · reactive
Shaped three-dimensional art
- statueThree-dimensional sculpted likeness
- bronzeCopper-tin alloy
- metalworkShaped metal objects
- bas-reliefSculpture projecting slightly
gilding · foundry · casting · conservation · restoration · curator · masterpiece · ornamental
Advanced in years
- weatheredEroded by exposure
- vintageQuality from past eras
- time-wornEroded by age
- antiqueOld valued collectible
character · authenticity · worn · discoloration · mellow · lustrous · sheen · turquoise
Gradual wearing away
- decayGradual organic breakdown
- deteriorationProcess of declining quality
- exposureState of being unprotected
- elementsFundamental parts or substances
degradation · wear · fading · blemish · stain · discoloration · pitting · environmental
oxidize
Combine with oxygen
verdigris · copper · bronze · brass · alloy · electrochemical · redox · anodize · reactive · aerobic
sculpture
Shaped three-dimensional art
bas-relief · gilding · foundry · casting · conservation · restoration · curator · masterpiece · ornamental · architectural
aged
Advanced in years
antique · character · authenticity · worn · discoloration · mellow · lustrous · sheen · turquoise · iridescent
erosion
Gradual wearing away
- decayGradual organic breakdown
- deteriorationProcess of declining quality
- exposureState of being unprotected
elements · degradation · wear · fading · blemish · stain · discoloration · pitting · environmental · atmospheric