
Maintaining an exceptional object, a gesture of respect
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In an era where objects are often designed to disappear, choosing a piece made to last is already a form of commitment. But this commitment doesn't end with the purchase. An exceptional object—whether made of wood, blown glass, or patinated brass—requires special care. Not out of fragility, but out of respect. For the material. For the craftsman's work. For the time it embodies and for its beauty.
Blown glass: demanding transparency
Mouth-blown glass is one of the most expressive materials in the Koddel collection. Each tealight holder or vase reflects a form of controlled imperfection, a precious singularity. To preserve this beauty, care must be gentle: a simple wash with warm water is sufficient. Never use abrasive products or scrapers, which could alter the surface.
If wax or dust residue remains, a natural solution made with slightly diluted white vinegar can safely restore transparency. Let it air dry without rubbing. The important thing is to preserve clarity without rushing.
Wood: living material
Whether it's a small oak sculpture, a walnut tray, or a stained wood base, each piece reacts to air, humidity, and light. This is what makes it beautiful... but also its sensitivity.
For daily maintenance, use a soft, dry cloth. Avoid wipes or multi-purpose sprays. Two to three times a year, you can condition the wood with a very thin layer of natural beeswax or linseed oil. This helps preserve its color and prevents it from drying out. Maintained wood reveals a magnificent patina over the years, a far cry from industrial uniformity.
Brass: the elegance of passing time
Many Koddel pieces feature a patinated or brushed brass finish. This material doesn't strive for perfect radiance, but for a soft warmth and subtle light. Brass is alive, and that's what makes it interesting. It oxidizes slightly over time, taking on subtle shadows.
A dry cloth can be used to remove dust. If you want to revive its shine without compromising its patina, a touch of diluted lemon or very mild bicarbonate of soda applied with your finger, then wiped off immediately, is enough. There's no need to polish: the key is to respect the balance between material and light.
Wax and carved candles
Some decorative candles in the collection—tassels, nature-inspired shapes, or hand-cast pieces—must be handled with care. Avoid exposing them to direct light or significant temperature fluctuations. Between uses, store them away from dust. If the surface whitens slightly (a natural phenomenon called "blooming"), a dry cloth can restore the softness of the wax.
What if the interview became a ritual?
To offer an exceptional object is to offer a story.
To preserve it is to write the future. Whether it's a sculpted vase, a brass candlestick, or a mirror with metallic edges, each piece deserves to be cared for with care—not out of perfectionism, but out of fidelity to the intention that saw it born.
At Koddel, we select objects designed to last. The humble and silent act of maintenance is part of this.