Bronze vs Spelter: What are the differences?

Published: 25th March 2024 | Author: Tanya Russell

When it comes to sculptures in the art world, there are a vast amount of material choices that exist for their creation. Similar to Bronze, Spelter is a common material that has been used for sculptures and decorative objects since the 19th and 20th centuries. Despite the initial challenge of distinguishing them apart with the naked eye, there are notable differences between the two.

How Bronze vs Spelter differ in their appearance

Oftentimes, Spelter is painted to give a Bronze appearance, meaning when looking comparatively at both a Spelter and Bronze statue, it can be difficult to tell them apart.

• The main giveaway between the two is their base metal colours. If you were to do the scratch test on the surface of Spelter, underneath you would reveal a silver/grey colour. If you were to do the same for Bronze, you would see a yellow/gold colour (If you have a sculpture that you are trying to differentiate between bronze and spelter, it is best to scratch the surface on the bottom of the statue if you can to minimise damaging its appearance)
• Bronze statues develop a natural patina (a green/brown colour) over time as a result of the Copper reacting to the environment around it.
• Spelter does not develop a patina over time, however, it is important to note that Spelter statues are oftentimes painted to look more akin to Bronze
• Bronze tends to maintain its colour consistency over time, especially when well looked after and cared for correctly. For more information, see Tanya’s article on how to correctly care for a bronze statue.
• Spelters overall appearance can experience more inconsistencies over time, in regards to colour and texture
• If your sculpture has any signs of corrosion, or has any cracks, it is more likely to be Spelter

Do Bronze and Spelter Rust?

Rust can only occur in metals that contain iron, therefore Bronze (a Copper and Tin alloy) and Spelter (a Zinc and Lead alloy) can not rust. This does not mean they can’t experience corrosion, however, which is explained further “Longevity in Bronze vs Longevity in Spelter” below.

Longevity in Bronze vs Longevity in Spelter

Like any material, there are best practices to keep something in the best condition possible, however, there are notable differences in the longevity between Bronze and Spelter from the offset.

• Bronze is renowned for its durability and robustness in many indoor and outdoor environments
• Bronze can be damaged, but with regular upkeep and proper care can last indefinitely
  Bronze actually develops a protective, desirable patina in over time, after its exposure to environmental elements
• Bronze can, very rarely, suffer with a condition called “bronze disease”. This however, only tends to affect historical artefacts that have had contact with water, such as those retrieved from a shipwreck, for example

Spelter, however due to being a softer, more brittle metal than Bronze, means it is more prone to wear and tear, even with care and upkeep.

• Zinc, the main metal in Spelter, typically offers good corrosion resistance if kept in non harsh environments
• Spelter’s properties do make it significantly more susceptible to corrosion and damage from environmental factors, such as sunlight and extreme temperatures
• To ensure longevity on your Spelter sculpture, it is best cared for and utilised as an indoor statue

It is important to remember that even for the most durable of metals, such as Bronze, maintenance and regular upkeep of your statue is best practice to ensure the longevity and quality of your piece.

Bronze Horse & Rider Statue

The cost of Bronze vs the cost of Spelter

It is important to consider their differences to understand their price points, which can come down to a number of factors.

Important factors to consider, when considering both metals are:

• Material Cost: Immediately evident is the higher cost associated with Bronze compared to Zinc. Consequently, artworks created from Bronze tend to command a higher price than those crafted from Spelter.
• Craftsmanship: The traditional method for making Bronze statues is “The Lost Wax Method”, which is an incredibly detailed and skilled process. Alongside the incredible craftsmanship required, this method is able to capture incredibly intricate, delicate details, which can as a result, provide a more emotive piece. Whilst Spelter can be used to express a variety of things, it may not offer the same intricacies as Bronze, thus making Bronze more expensive
• Perceived Value: For most people looking for a sculpture, Bronze is considered an excellent choice due to its incredible durability, and its ability to hold its worth over many years. These qualities make Bronze highly collectable adding to its perceived value. Antique Spelter artwork, can too, be highly sought after due to its historic context.
• Size: The size of the artwork can affect the overall cost of a piece. When making large statues, or even a big commission piece, Bronze is the go-to choice for artists, meaning the increased use of materials to make it will make the price more substantial. Spelter is rarely used for large works of art, meaning a lower price point
• Collectibility: While both Bronze and Spelter artworks hold historical significance and are sought after, several factors influence their pricing. The condition of both Spelter and Bronze plays a role in determining their respective costs. Notably, Bronze statues often exhibit better preservation due to their inherent ability to withstand diverse environments and the test of time. Additionally, other considerations include the artist, time period, and rarity, all of which contribute to the overall expense.

To Conclude

In conclusion, while Spelter may not command the same level of desirability or long-term value as bronze, it possesses inherent worth due to its rich historical context, exquisite craftsmanship, and undeniable beauty.

Throughout our comparison of the physical differences between Spelter and Bronze, we have highlighted Bronze’s natural advantages in terms of durability, environmental resilience, and value retention. However, it is crucial to think deeper and acknowledge that, in the realm of creativity and the subjective nature of art, you are unable to directly compare Spelter and Bronze. Beyond comparing their physical properties, what makes each truly special is their uniqueness, fundamentally mirroring the individuality in the artistic creations they embody.

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