Patinas

In a strict sense the term "patina" refers to the often colorful thin layer of corrosion, often brown or green, that appears on bronze as a result of natural or artificial oxidation. In the more general use of the term it refers to whatever finish a mature bronze sculpture ends up with. It is thought by some that the art of patination developed as an attempt to simulate the natural patinas on ancient bronzes found buried or in sunken vessels. It may in fact have been that these bronzes were originally painted or colored in other ways, but the beauty of what nature had done to them encouraged "patinuers" to develop techniques to artificially cause similar effects.

The most common way to patina a bronze involves a variety of chemicals to encourage oxidation of various colors. Generally, the brighter and more intense effects are achieved by heating the bronze first, and applying the chemicals by either brushing or spraying.

We patina most of Georgia’s sculptures using three chemicals, which when combined in various strengths, application techniques, and differing heat levels can produce a wide array of effects. Because any particular effect depends on many variables, individual patinas vary from piece to piece even when attempting to replicate a particular look. This is why we tell clients that "You can order any patina you'd like, so long as you take the one you get." This is mostly in jest, because in reality it is usually possible to create a specific look, though it certainly is true that every piece will have its own unique charm.

The final step in finishing a bronze is the application of wax to the hot metal. Waxing with the metal hot and expanded makes for a durable finish that can be buffed to a high sheen once the metal cools. Periodic renewal of the wax will enhance the look of a sculpture and protect the stability of the patina. See Care and Maintenance for more details.