The use of bronze metals has a long and illustrious history in the arts. Bronze sculptures have captivated the imaginations of people across the world, from the Thinker meditating on a rock to the Statue of David's exquisite musculature. Continue reading to find out why artists choose to sculpt with bronze to this day.
What Is Bronze?
Bronze is a copper-tin alloy created by melting and cooling the two metals together. Between 3,500 and 3,000 B.C.E., ancient civilizations began to mold bronze into sacred sculptures and used it in construction. Today, most bronze works get made with a composition that is 88 percent bronze and 12 percent tin.
How Are Bronze Sculptures Made?
The technique of creating bronze sculptures varies from one artist to the next. While there are usually many distinct phases and details artists will go through during the process, a broad summary can look like this:
The process begins with a spark of inspiration from the artist, who will see and shape the sculpture in their mind.
The artist will shape and carve out the details after creating the bones of the art piece. They’ll do this with foam or clay.
Depending on its size, they may divide the item into many parts for the molding process.
After that, the artist will use the casting technique, which involves pouring molten metal into a mold created by plastering over the earlier construction.
Afterward, the metal is cooled to allow it to harden.
Why Use Bronze?
Bronze metals have different properties that make them ideal for artists. Here are some of the many reasons why artists choose to sculpt with bronze:
Bronze is relatively easy to melt, which makes it easier to cast.
Bronze alloys expand shortly before setting, allowing them to fill minor details of a mold.
After bronze cools, it will shrink slightly, making it easier to remove from the mold.
Once bronze hardens, it is much harder and more corrosion-resistant than iron.
As a finished sculpture, bronze is incredibly easy to care for and maintain.
The most significant reason why artists choose to sculpt with bronze is that the metal can create beautiful, unique works of art. A bronze sculpture—such as one of a German Shepherd—is the ideal centerpiece for your home or workplace, exuding sophistication and elegance. Feel free to contact me with any questions about one of my pieces.
