On Wed, 25 May 2005 21:17:04 GMT, wrote:

When refinishing an antique would it be better to leave the tranished
darkened brasses as is or to bring them back to their shiny condition?

Depends on the condition and whether they really need it. In general,
leave them alone. If you do _have_to_ clean them, then they may need to
be re-patinated afterwards.