The Art Foundry’s
Guide to Caring for Your Bronze Sculpture

Background

Your bronze piece has been treated with a “patina” – a chemical process that gives each piece its distinctive color. The patina has been protected with a coat of special wax that is applied while the piece is still quite hot – sealing the color and giving the work a luster.

After the sculpture leaves the Foundry, the environment in which it is displayed may affect the patina. Poorly ventilated places, such as attics and basements, that hold heat and humidity should be avoided. The best environment will be ventilated and away from direct sunlight. Like all metals, bronze will oxidize over time. Because of the amount of copper in bronze, it will tend toward a greenish hue instead of a rusty red. Proper care and maintenance of the piece can prevent this natural process.

Maintenance

Periodically wipe the piece with a soft cloth or brush to remove dust and preserve the luster. If the patina has noticeably changed over time, use a mild soap (such as Dawn) and warm water on a soft cloth. Some experts even suggest using “distilled” water in this mix, rather than tap water. Never use a solvent or cleaning chemical on the bronze. Corrosive chemicals (such as those used to clean silver and other metals) could damage or strip away the patina. After wiping the sculpture clean, allow it to dry completely before handling.

Cleaning

Once or twice a year – depending upon where the sculpture is located, outdoors or inside – you can apply a coat of wax that renews the beauty and depth of the piece. Outdoor work may be treated more often than indoor. Experts suggest using a variety of waxes that contain “carnauba” – a hard wax made from the leaves of the Brazilian carnauba palm tree. Some of the brand names include Johnson’s Traffic Wax, Mohawk Blue Label Paste Wax or Renaissance Wax – the latter is inert and will not yellow over time. Some foundries recommend against using Johnson’s wax for multi-colored patinas.

Apply the wax with a brush – such as a pastry brush – in a “stippling” fashion to reach any crevices. You can gently wipe away any visible excess of wax but wait until the piece is completely dry (several hours) before polishing with a clean, soft cloth. There is no danger in applying yet another coat to further protect the piece over time.

The goal is to preserve the patina and luster of the original work. Although bronze is extremely hard and lasts for centuries, the patina is the most delicate element. Its long-term beauty depends upon proper placement and care.

If you have questions about care of your bronze sculpture, e-mail the Art Foundry’s experts at artfoundryinc@aol.com. Please put “bronze care” in the subject line. Or visit their webiste at www.artfoundryinc.com.