Authenticity & Care

The Lineage of Your Object Every piece in the Object Theory collection carries the physical memory of its origin. From reclaimed architectural wood to antique Naga pottery and hand-painted Gond surfaces, these objects have survived decades—often centuries.

The natural variations in wood grain, oxidized patinas, structural fissures, and uneven pigment wear are not defects; they are the authentication marks of heritage craftsmanship. To ensure your piece lasts for generations in your space, we recommend following these specific curatorial care guidelines.

Reclaimed Wood & Teak Surfaces Our wooden pieces, including the Heritage and Tapas capsules, are finished to preserve their raw, natural character.

  • Cleaning: Dust regularly with a clean, dry microfiber cloth. Do not use damp cloths, as moisture can alter the natural wax or oil finishes.

  • Products to Avoid: Never use commercial, silicone-based furniture polishes, abrasive cleaners, or chemical solvents.

  • Environment: Wood is a breathing material. Protect your piece from extreme temperature fluctuations, direct air conditioning vents, and prolonged, harsh sunlight, which can cause the wood to over-dry or the natural pigments to fade.

Hand-Painted Artifacts & Art Panels Pieces featuring Gond art, miniature painting, or original shrine pigments require delicate handling.

  • Cleaning: Gently dust with a soft-bristled artist's brush or a dry feather duster.

  • Moisture Warning: Keep entirely away from water. Never wipe painted panels with a wet cloth, as this can reactivate or lift traditional stone and natural pigments.

Antique Earthenware & Stone (Naga Urns & Pots) Our antique terracotta and river stone vessels are highly porous and structurally distinct from modern ceramics.

  • Handling: Always lift heavy urns from the base, never by the rim or decorative high-relief motifs (such as the dragon carvings), as antique clay can be brittle.

  • Water Usage: Antique terracotta is not watertight. If you intend to use our urns for live botanicals, you must place a waterproof, sealed plastic or glass liner inside the vessel first. Do not pour water directly into the antique clay.

Vintage Textiles & Upholstery Pieces incorporating vintage fabrics, such as our Zardozi-upholstered benches, require specialized care.

  • Cleaning: Use a vacuum with a clean upholstery brush attachment on a low-suction setting to remove dust.

  • Spills: In the event of a spill, blot immediately with a clean, dry cloth—do not rub. For deep cleaning, we strongly recommend consulting a professional dry cleaner specializing in heritage textiles.

Studio Support Should you require specific advice regarding the restoration, maintenance, or placement of your piece, our concierge desk is always available to assist you.

Please reach out to hello@objecttheory.in.