How do I identify a cast bronze from spelter?

Bronze is heavier, colder to the touch, and rings with a clear tone when struck gently, whereas spelter feels lighter and more brittle. Examining the underside or areas where the finish has worn can reveal the silvery-grey metal beneath a spelter figure.

What is cold-painted bronze?

Cold-painting involves applying natural pigments to a metal sculpture without subjecting the piece to kiln firing. This technique allows for vivid coloration on dancers and figurative subjects, though the paint requires careful preservation away from moisture.

How should I clean my bronze sculpture?

Dust the surface regularly with a soft, dry brush to prevent the accumulation of dirt within the crevices of the casting. Avoid using water, chemical polishes, or abrasive cloths, as these substances can strip the original patination from the metal.

Are marble bases original to the sculptures?

Many Art Deco and Art Nouveau figures were designed specifically to be mounted on cylindrical or stepped marble and onyx bases. Original mounts typically show natural ageing, matching patination around the fixing points, and appropriate period construction.