Small Scale Model

The artist first creates a 1/4 size clay sculpture, called a maquette. The maquette is then submitted to the client for approval of the artist's concept.

Life-size Clay

A life-size foam armature is created from a 3D scan of the maquette. The artist applies oil-based clay to the foam structure to create a detailed depiction of the subjects.

Mold Making

A foundry then creates the molds of individual sections of the life-size clay sculpture. Molten wax is then poured into each mold. The wax duplicates are removed from the molds and inspected.

Ceramic Shell

Each wax duplicate is coated with several layers of a ceramic-like substance which creates a shell. Molten bronze is then poured into each shell, melting the wax. The bronze adheres to the shell creating the individual bronze pieces.

The shell is then broken off the bronze pieces, which are then brazed together to create an exact replica of the original clay piece.

Patina

A patina, final color, is created by heating the sculpture with a blow torch while applying a mixture of chemicals. The patina gives the sculpture the look of aged bronze.