How can I clean dirt from an oil painting?
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brush attachment on the vacuume.
A soft brush will help remove dust or use compressed air sold in computer departments.
I inherited oil paintings from two parents who smoked cigarettes for 40 years. . I used a very soft toothbrush and mild ,soapy water . It worked nicely, . This was 30 years ago. I remember how the landscapes looked like they were in smog... lol. These paintings still look fine ! btw. I tried for 10 years to rid the cigarette smell for my mothers nice ,Misty Harbor ( label) rain coat. Finally threw it away. gr-gr
An oil painting that is soiled can be gently washed with a solution of water and mild dishsoap. I've done it on an antique painting and it did clean some of the old dirt off, but didn't harm anything. Just use a soft white terry cloth rag and work in small areas at a time. Don't soak it or anything like that.
I would have it professionally cleaned if I were you
My artist husband would use a solvent but you must be very careful. No vacuum. . . too much chance of damage, soft brush can help but usually paintings have real dirt. Take it to a frame shop and see what they would charge to clean it.