bronzemetalwork

Bronze metalwork refers to objects and artworks made from bronze, an alloy of copper and tin. Typical bronze contains about 88–95% copper and 5–12% tin, though other bronzes such as aluminum bronze exist. Bronze is valued for hardness, strength, wear resistance, and its capacity to develop a durable patina.

Bronze emerged in the Bronze Age (c. 3300–1200 BCE) and was widely used for tools, weapons, vessels, and ritual objects. In ancient Greece and Rome, bronze casting produced statues and reliefs; in East Asia, ritual bronzes and bells were prized. Bronzeworking remained central to sculpture and decorative arts through the Renaissance and into modern times.

The dominant technique is casting, especially lost-wax (cire-perdue) investment casting, but sand casting and shell mold casting are also used. Work may then be finished by chasing, repoussé, hammering, engraving, and inlay. Surfaces are treated with polishing, patination, wax, or lacquer to control color and corrosion.

Bronze objects include statues, busts, bells, coins and medals, architectural fittings, hardware, and musical instruments. Bronze’s detail retention and long-lasting patina make it a preferred medium for public sculpture and decorative arts, as well as industrial components.

Conservation focuses on controlling corrosion and patina, with cleanup and protective coatings as needed. Today bronze metalwork spans traditional artisanal craft and industrial production, continuing to be produced worldwide.