Look before treating
Photograph the condition and inscriptions. Do not assume every dark recess needs cleaning.
Take a gentle approach
The Institute of Conservation recommends gentle dust removal and limiting unnecessary tarnish removal. Polishing removes a little surface material. Historically valuable objects deserve specialist conservation advice.
Keep the story too
Record where the object came from, when it was given and any repairs. Its history may matter more than a bright finish.
Reference: Institute of Conservation: Silver and plate.
