How do I detail this metal chest ?

https://www.hunker.com/13419577/how-to-remove-rust-from-antique-metal found this, hope it helps!

I would try a plastic scrub pad and some plain soapy water in a small spot. Another cleaner may remove the rest of the finish as well.

To enhance the texture and shape of the raised design, I would suggest that after painting, you glue tiny 'gems' on to the round points .

Check with a primer first ( KILZ ) and maybe that would help you . You'll more than likely need to spray paint it . Kilz makes primers for all sub straights !

I would not spray paint it. It would be nearly impossible to get the paint off if you change your mind. Use chalk paint to highlight the textured part and another color to highlight the dots. It is an exquisite piece and spray painting it would ruin the beauty as well as the value of it. Chalk paint can be removed.

You could select the color you want to acceent the piece with and buy a small amount of paint in that color (maybe even a small bottle of craft paint). Maybe water the paint down just a bit and wipe onto the surface of the piece and then take a soft cloth and remove from the high points. The paint will remain in the lower crevices and design of the piece and make it more unique because of the contrast.

you could put gold leaf on it to highlight the areas - you could paint the dots or little ball like parts

Hello. If you want to leave it the same color and give it some accents I suggest using rubnbuff if you would like to add a metallic component.

I’ve used Rub n buff on picture frames and pewter candlesticks. It’s a waxy rub on that worked well for my needs. It can lighten or darken.

Have a look at the website possible color options, reviews Q&A to to see if it’s a product you might wish to consider.

http://www.amaco.com/t/mixed-media/metallic-finishes/rub-n-buff

https://www.amazon.com/AMACO-Metallic-Finish-Ebony-0-5-Fluid/dp/B00081HYE6/ref=pd_bxgy_201_3?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B00081HYE6&pd_rd_r=D69ZW30FXPG7FV7B3TPP&pd_rd_w=qeFGu&pd_rd_wg=0y8SD&psc=1&refRID=D69ZW30FXPG7FV7B3TPP

https://www.michaels.com/rub-n-buff-wax-metallic-finish/M10183569.html

Here's a post that might help https://antiquetrunksandchests.com/how-to-paint-old-antique-trunk/

Hi Joan, I think a beautiful metallic spray paint would make this a beautiful work of art! You could highlight the buttons and grapes in a different metallic, as well as the lines

I would take acrylic paint pens and just detail the diamonds and maybe just keep the rest same?

Use metallic spray paint