All about antique bronze
Antique items are becoming more and more popular every day. They are of interest not only to collectors, but also to connoisseurs of retro aesthetics in the interior. Especially appreciated antique bronzes... Casting from this material has a long history, so sculptural masterpieces are considered a great gift idea.
History
During the period Middle ages the bronze sculpture was mainly of a mythological orientation. In addition to small figurines, monumental works of art were also created. In the era Renaissance products have become more sophisticated and romantic. With coming baroque statuettes began to appear in the form of people doing some business, dancing, sports, playing musical instruments, writing, etc. Neoclassicism was marked by the transition to the production of plot works from metal. Also, bronze began to be actively used in the interior: candlesticks, clocks and other elements were made from it.
In tsarist Russia in the 18th-19th centuries, products on the theme of hunting, folk life, and military affairs were popular. In Austria, the “Viennese bronze” became widespread during this period. Miniature figures with non-standard plots conquered at first sight. Frogs playing chess, a cat on skis, a mouse-stickman and other funny figurines were sent to shops in Paris, New York, London. The Arabic theme was also popular.
In Russia, in the 19th century, there was a tendency to decorate bronze gizmos with gilding, multi-colored enamel.
Peculiarities
In the modern world, where production is put on stream, the value of exclusive antiques is increasing... They can tell about the peculiarities of a certain era, trends in design and architecture, moral values.The metal itself is beautiful. Modern bronze differs from the old one. It contains aluminum, zinc, silicon. Antique metal is an alloy of tin and red copper. This is what gives the products a charming reddish-brown shade with a golden sheen.
The metal is highly durable. That is why the masters of the past created various products from it, including both large interior elements and miniature decor. Even jewelers have resorted to using this material.
Also, bronze is resistant to corrosion. If the item is stored under normal conditions, not exposed to high humidity, and regularly cleaned with a soft cloth (such as flannel), it will retain its gloss and color for a long time.
Variety of products
Antique bronze items can be roughly divided into several categories:
- interior elements (candelabra, chandeliers, table lamps, mantel clocks, etc.);
- dishes (jugs, bowls, dishes);
- household items (inkpots, writing sets, pen stands, ashtrays, bells, etc.);
- sculptural compositions, figurines.
Each item has its own flavor. For example, candlesticks can be made in the form of angels holding flowers in their hands, or winged griffins. These are elegant small models that can be placed on a table or fireplace, and massive floor options, reaching a height of 1 meter or more. Jugs and clocks are usually decorated with intricate ornaments and patterns, and sometimes sculptural elements. Even ashtrays are beautiful and charming.
There are also whole metal sets, for example, cabinet and fireplace sets, consisting of clocks, candlesticks and other elements made in the same style.
The figurines are varied. These are muses, mythical heroes, representatives of various professions of the past (blacksmiths, steelworkers, etc.), poets, musicians, dancers and simply beautiful girls in graceful poses, children. Many models depict dogs and wild animals (deer, wolves, bison). You can often find figurines of men on horseback.
There are products that tell whole stories. For example, an ink box in the form of a box on which a circus clown stands with a hoop. A trained dog in a cocked hat sits on a bookcase next to him. Other pets watch the furry entertainer complete tasks.
The master has worked with pinpoint precision in all the smallest details: the pattern on the clothes, the details of the drum, and the hat that was casually thrown away.
Composition "Churning oil" presents the audience with the everyday scene of a peasant economy. Next to the cow is a boy holding a large container of oil. A girl sitting on a bench is pouring milk to beat it with a wooden mortar, which is also made with maximum realism.
A couple of lovers riding in a stroller - romantic sculpture. We see how a man hugs his companion around the waist and looks at her with tenderness. The details of the faces and costumes of people are surprisingly talented. The image of a horse carrying a cart is also worthy of admiration.
And here's an example for tough men. The battle scene is striking in its dynamism. The feeling is created that the participants in the fight will come to life and continue the fight.
Antiques
Today bronze antiques have not lost their artistic value. On the contrary, some products are estimated at hundreds of thousands of rubles. Basically, these are items of museum value that have great historical and collection value. As a rule, they have documents certified by art historians and confirming the authenticity of their origin.
The most highly appreciated works of masters of the past with the original signature of the author.
Today on the market you can find antique items from France, Austria, England... However, the masterpieces of Russian masters are also recognized as some of the best. Gilded and silvered items look luxurious. There are interesting options in which pure metal is combined with enameled details.
Items made entirely of uncovered material are also good in their own way. Over time, natural oxidation of the material occurs. It is covered patina (light golden bloom). It is this natural coating that gives the products a special charm, being a testament to their antiquity.
For an overview of antique bronze items, see the next video.
