I'm going to assume that there is a finish on the carving. Apply Wood Elixir with a paint brush and allow it to loosen the dirt for five minutes. Use a tooth brush to get into all the cracks. Remove the dirt with '0000' steel wool and buff with a clean cloth. This process will remove any dirt and restore the finish at the same time.
--Previous Message-- : I am restoring a family heirloom with deeply : carved decorations, part of a bookcase : with three glass doors: the carving is : attached above the bookcase. I wonder how : to clean and restore the pockets around : these carved flowers. They are about : 1/3-1/2 inch deep? I am concerned about : getting a consistent overall color when : finished. :