Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc that has been widely used in furniture, lighting, clocks, hardware and decorative arts for centuries. Valued for its strength, corrosion resistance and warm golden appearance, brass became one of the defining materials of Georgian, Victorian and Arts & Crafts craftsmanship. Antique brass naturally develops a soft patina with age, which is often considered an important part of its authenticity and should generally be preserved rather than aggressively polished.