In the hearts of pet lovers, our furry companions hold a special place, weaving themselves into the fabric of our lives with their unconditional love and companionship. When our beloved Starbright, a majestic Maine Coon, graced our lives for an incredible 21 years, it was a journey filled with cherished moments and treasured memories. To immortalize Starbright’s legacy, we embarked on a profound tribute through the artistry of Metropolitan Galleries, crafting a custom bronze sculpture that captures the very essence of our dear friend.
At Metropolitan Galleries, tradition meets innovation in the art of sculpting, particularly through the time-honored lost wax bronze casting method. This intricate process begins with a meticulous sculpting of Starbright’s likeness in clay, a labor of love that captures every nuance of her personality. From the gentle curve of her whiskers to the playful glint in her eyes, no detail is overlooked.
Once the clay sculpture is perfected, a mold is created around it, encasing it in a shell of plaster or rubber. This mold is then carefully cut open, revealing the clay sculpture nestled within. It is from this mold that the magic of lost wax casting truly begins.
Liquid wax is poured into the mold, filling the negative space left by the clay sculpture. As the wax cools and hardens, it takes on the exact form of Starbright, down to the finest detail. This wax replica, known as the “investment,” is then coated in layers of ceramic shell, creating a sturdy casing for the bronze to come.
The investment, now encased in ceramic shell, is placed in a kiln, where the wax is melted away, leaving behind an empty cavity in the shape of Starbright. Molten bronze, heated to a scorching temperature, is then poured into this cavity, filling every nook and cranny with liquid metal.
As the bronze cools and solidifies, the ceramic shell is chipped away, revealing the raw bronze sculpture within. This rough casting undergoes a meticulous process of cleaning and refinement, as our skilled artisans work to bring out the true beauty of Starbright’s likeness.
The final step in this journey is the application of the luxurious light brown patina, a delicate process that adds depth and warmth to the bronze, bringing Starbright to life in stunning detail.
Specializing in custom statuary and fountain design and production, Metropolitan Galleries stands as a beacon of artistic excellence and dedication to preserving memories. With a team of skilled artisans and a commitment to honoring the unique bond between humans and animals, Metropolitan Galleries offers a sanctuary for those seeking to immortalize their beloved pets in timeless bronze.
As pet lovers ourselves, we understand the profound impact our furry friends have on our lives. Through our experience with Metropolitan Galleries, we found solace in the process of honoring Starbright’s memory in a tangible and enduring form. Now, we extend this opportunity to others who seek to commemorate their cherished companions with the same reverence and craftsmanship.
In the heart of every pet owner lies a desire to immortalize the bond shared with their beloved companions. Through the artistry of Metropolitan Galleries and the intricate process of lost wax bronze casting, this desire transcends into reality, as cherished memories are transformed into timeless bronze sculptures. Let Metropolitan Galleries be the vessel through which your beloved pet’s legacy lives on, ensuring that their memory shines brightly for eternity.