The action of 'stripping' agents on exposed bronze alloys was studied. Test pieces of tin-bronze and leaded tin-bronze alloys having compositions typical of ancient objects were cast from modern metal stock, simulating procedures used in antiquity, and subjected to the following reagents: alkaline glycerol, alkaline Rochelle salt, Calgon, citric acid and buffered citric acid solutions. The effects on the metal were studied by using metallographic techniques and monitoring pH readings. Two degrees of etching were found to occur before the times normally recommended for treatment had elapsed. The pH of the solutions showed a slight change.