Choosing finish Semi-bright is a warm, satin finish. Plain brass is gently brushed with a little oil, and a very soft wire brush. It, too, can be polished to a high shine. There is no lacquer on any Horton brasses.
Antique brass is a soft, brown finish, and looks gently aged.
It is quite different than the usual 'hardware store' antique, and can be lightened or removed with a little brass polish and elbow grease. There is no artificial coating and the brass will age naturally and gracefully. Surfaces that are handled will ultimately develop a golden hue with dark shadows in the recesses. Bright brass is highly polished to a mirror shine. Highly reflective, it is what you would find when butlers weren't so hard to keep.