Bronze is a material that has long been used by craftsmen and artists alike. At one point in history, bronze was considered the most important material in the world. Hence the term Bronze Age. This period of time ranging from approximately twenty-five hundred B.C. to thirty-one fifty B.C., some experts claim. Artifacts such as the “dancing Girl” bronze statue have been dated to as early as twenty-five hundred B.C. and is considered the first bronze statue in the world. Weapons and tools were also crafted of this versatile material during this time but the discovery of iron and steel put an end to crafting bronze weapons due to their superior strength.

Crafting with bronze is an art form that has never been lost. Artisans use newer tools and more advanced techniques, but for the most part, the craft has remained the same throughout the ages. Modern casting techniques for pipe fittings and other hardware are manufactured with pour-casting for commercial purposes. Artists typically use the Lost Wax Method or Investment casting. The process begins with carving or sculpting a clay model. This method is preferred by artists because it allows greater detail and can be combined with other molds to create unique products more quickly.

The mould is crafted from non-drying materials in most cases, but some artists prefer a more natural or porous look. When the mould is complete a cast or hollow is created. Hollows are used for larger products that would take too much material to fill. Smaller products are cast solid because it’s quicker and easier to simply pour the metal. A core is cast in the mould and made ready to cast the final product. Pins are used to maintain the shape of the cast and vents are used to dispose of gas that may have gotten trapped.

The wax is melted from the cast in a kiln to remove any remaining moisture. Once the wax has run off the investment is ready to be filled with molten metal. Once the metal is cast – pins, vents, and risers will need to be removed. The external materials must be chipped away and then excess metal removed by sculpture artists. Marks on the final product will need to be sanded and polished in order to leave a clean finish. Smaller projects such as figure sculpture don’t take long to finish depending on how detailed the item is and what the desired finish is.

Larger projects such as custom bronze statues are considerably different. Commissioning large projects is an involved process and could take some time to get the details perfect. Bronze art can’t be rushed and finishing a large project takes time. For more information about how Karen creates her beautiful sculptures, or to discuss purchasing on of her unique pieces, please visit the contact page.