Bronze is an alloy of copper and tin, and often also contains lead or zinc. It is strong and durable but can also capture the fine, complex detail within a casting mould. The V&A holds in its collections a large number of bronze objects, including a group of sculptures donated by Auguste Rodin.
Sculpture Techniques: Bronze Casting
There are two basic methods of casting a bronze. Sand casting is a simple technique that uses moulds made of compact, fine sand. Lost-wax casting is a complex process using…
Read article
The 'Chellini Madonna', by Donatello, about 1450
One of the Museum’s most prized possessions is the bronze roundel by Donatello depicting the Virgin and Child, given to his doctor Giovanni Chellini in lieu of payment.
Read article
The Radiant Buddha
This standing figure of the Buddha Sakyamuni is one of only a tiny number of Indian metal Buddha images surviving from a formative period in the development of the image of…
Read article
'The Laughing Child' & 'The Crying Child', after François Roubiliac, about 1750
Pairs of the Laughing and Crying Child in bronze are highly unusual .This pair is almost certainly British, and probably dates from about 1750. The most likely author of th…
Read article
The Mahasiddha Virupa
This figure represents the Mahasiddha, or great yogic adept Virupa, who lived during the 9th century in north India. Such figures lived alone or with a consort and became r…
Read article
Arm Ring of an African Leader
This bronze arm ring was originally amongst the possessions of a southern African leader.
Read article
Caring for your Copper, Brass, Bronze & Other Alloys
Caring for copper, brass, bronze and other alloys.
Read article
Become a V&A Member
V&A Members enjoy a wealth of benefits, including free entry to exhibitions, previews, exciting events and the V&A Members’ Room. In addition, you will be supporting the vital work of the V&A.
Buy or Renew Membership OnlineShop online
Gold & Bronze Sequin Necklace
Delicate gold & bronze sequin necklace with ribbon tie.…
Buy now
