What is the difference between bronze and spelter?

Bronze is a durable copper alloy that takes fine detail and holds a rich patination over time. Spelter is a softer zinc alloy that served as a popular, lighter alternative for decorative figures. Spelter pieces often show a applied bronze-coloured finish rather than solid metal coloration. You can distinguish them by weight and by checking beneath the base where the metal is exposed.

How do I clean patinated metal?

Dust these statues gently with a soft, dry cloth to remove surface particles. Avoid chemical cleaners and commercial polishes, which can strip away the historic patination. Moisture and abrasive materials damage the metal surface permanently. Keeping them in stable indoor conditions protects the finish from degradation.

Were these figures always mounted on marble?

Many figures from the Art Deco period utilise shaped marble or onyx bases to provide stability and contrast. These stone plinths are characteristic of the 1930s aesthetic. Earlier nineteenth-century pieces sometimes feature integral metal bases or wood plinths instead. The choice of base generally reflects the prevailing style of the manufacturing period.

How do I identify an Art Deco statue?

Art Deco statues typically feature streamlined human forms, stylised drapery, and geometric motifs. Common subjects include dancers, athletes, and sleek animals like greyhounds and pheasants. The posture and clothing reflect the modern fashions of the 1920s and 1930s. Materials during this era frequently combined patinated metal with contrasting coloured marbles.