How do I clean a bronze woman statue?

Dust the surface gently with a soft, dry brush to prevent dirt accumulation in the crevices of the drapery or hair. Avoid using water, chemical cleaners, or abrasives, as these substances strip the historical patina and damage the underlying metal.

How can I tell bronze from spelter?

Bronze is heavier, colder to the touch, and rings with a distinct tone when tapped lightly, whereas spelter feels softer and lighter. Examining the underside or areas where the finish has worn reveals the greyish metal of spelter compared to the warm reddish-brown of bronze.

Why do some figures have marble bases?

Foundries added stone plinths to provide physical stability to top-heavy figures and to create a formal boundary between the sculpture and the furniture. Different stones, such as black marble or green onyx, matched the interior decorating tastes of the Victorian and Art Deco periods.

Are all these statues French?

Many of the listed pieces originate from French foundries and artists active in Paris during the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. However, the selection also includes English, Austrian, and American productions that reflect regional artistic training and local casting traditions.

What is an Art Deco car mascot?

These small bronze and spelter figures were mounted on the radiator caps of luxury automobiles during the interwar years. Artists designed stylised female forms to cut through the wind visually, combining utility with fashionable modern aesthetics.