10 Things to Consider When Buying large bronze lion statue

Bronze lion statues are considered to be powerful, brave, and regal. They are often used in gardens, homes, and public spaces and just about anywhere they can be decorative and functional pieces of art.
In this article, we&#;re going to explore the history and artistic significance of these sculptures, along with some very useful tips for how to better care for them and how to own them in the first place.

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1. The Reason Bronze Lions Are So Popular

During my visits to many collectors&#; homes and discussions with many of the collectors, I came across an astounding fact: The bronze lion statues are in vogue and the audience is reaching out to divergent nature and quite striking masterpieces of decor for both interior and exterior. Their lasting appeal comes from the lion&#;s widespread representation of strength, protection, and nobility&#;traits that strongly connect with homeowners looking to enhance the character of their properties.

The lost-wax technique we employ today is not all that different from ancient practices, and can all but literally deliver sculptures engraved with souls, that can outlast entire civilizations. When well cared for, these pieces can last generations which makes them great investment pieces for the discerning homeowner.

2. How to choose Perfect Bronze Lions?

From my experience helping clients choose their ideal pieces, I recommend considering these main factors:

Size and Placement

• For entryways: Consider paired lions at 24-36 inches tall
• For gardens: 48-60 inches can create dramatic focal points
• For indoor display: 12-18 inches works well for most spaces

Style Options

Traditional Chinese guardian lions (foo dogs)
Classical European designs
Modern interpretative pieces
Naturalistic wildlife sculptures

Patina Choices

Classic bronze finish
Verde (green) patina
Dark brown patina
Custom finishes

3. Maintenance Made Simple

I always tell my clients that caring for bronze sculptures is not only simple, but absolutely necessary. Unlike many other materials, regular cleaning with mild soap and water and an annual waxing will keep your statue looking fabulous for years.

4. Famous Bronze Lion Statues Around the World

(1) Trafalgar Square Lions, London

The four majestic bronze lions guarding Nelson&#;s Column in Trafalgar Square have become symbols of British strength since their installation in . Created by sculptor Sir Edwin Landseer, each lion weighs over 7 tons and measures 20 feet long. What many visitors don&#;t realize is that these lions were cast from melted French cannons captured in battle, adding historical significance to their already impressive presence.

(2) HSBC Lions, Hong Kong

Stephen and Stitt, the two famous bronze lions at HSBC&#;s Hong Kong headquarters, have witnessed over 85 years of the city&#;s history. Casted in Shanghai in , these lions are considered powerful feng shui guardians and symbols of prosperity. During World War II, they survived Japanese occupation despite being struck by bullets &#; the scars from which are still visible today. Local tradition holds that touching their paws brings good fortune in business.

(3) Lion&#;s Fountain, Culver City

Located in the heart of Culver City&#;s downtown area, this modern interpretation of bronze lions combines classical symbolism with contemporary design. The fountain, installed in , features water elements that create a peaceful atmosphere while maintaining the lions&#; traditional protective symbolism. This installation demonstrates how classical bronze lion sculptures can be adapted for modern urban spaces.

(4) New York Public Library Lions

Names: Patience and Fortitude
Installed:
Size: 11 feet long each
Historical significance: Survived the Great Depression and became symbol of New York&#;s resilience

(5)Vatican Museums Lions

Located in Vatican City
Ancient Roman origin
Feature unique patina development
Influence on Renaissance art

(6) Chicago Art Institute Lions

Installed:
Created by Edward Kemeys
Famous for wearing seasonal decorations
Represent the institution&#;s dedication to classical art

5. How do you purchase bronze lion statues?

• Verifying the authenticity of the bronze alloy
• Checking the quality of welding and finishing
• Ensuring proper mounting options are included
• Confirming the piece&#;s weight capacity for your intended location
• Consider starting with a signature lion piece for your entrance or garden, then gradually expanding your collection with complementary animal sculptures that reflect your home&#;s style and character.

6. Expert Tip

Statues come in different sizes and prices, and that is what clients usually concentrate on at first, but I ask them to make sure to check the facial details and facial positions on the statues. These characteristics influence, in many cases, how successful the part is with grabbing the eyeball, you know, how it commands its presence in its environment.

Note that a bronze lion statue is not simply a one-off, it is art that you will be enhancing the aesthetic value of your property with now, and for many generations to come! From a statement sculpture for a grand entrance to an understated gallery in your garden, there&#;s a piece out there to complete your space with rare finesse and uniqueness.

7. Relevant Questions People Also Ask

What is the significance of bronze lion statues?

Bronze lion statues often symbolize strength, courage, and protection. They are commonly used in various cultures as guardians of homes, buildings, or public spaces.

How are bronze lion statues made?

Bronze lion statues are typically created using the lost-wax casting method, where a wax model is coated with a heat-resistant material to form a mold, which is then filled with molten bronze.

What should I consider when buying a bronze lion statue?

Consider factors such as size, style, patina finish, and whether it will be placed indoors or outdoors to ensure durability against weather conditions.

How do I maintain a bronze lion statue?

Regular cleaning with mild soap and water, avoiding harsh chemicals, and applying a protective wax can help maintain the statue&#;s appearance.

More relevant topics:

How can you restore color and shine on an old bronze or brass statue?

How Much Does a Life Size 6-Foot Bronze Statue Cost?

The Top 18 Bronze Animal Statues to Add to Your Garden

Popular Garden Statues & Sculptures in USA

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Before you buy a bronze lion, you should find out whether it is an original or a replica. You don&#;t have to be an expert in antiquities to be able to do that. That&#;s why we have come up with this guide to enable you to find the best bronze lions. Here are the tips:

1. Buy Directly From the Artist
 

Buying from the source is a sure way of ensuring that you get an original item. If not, then you can buy from a trusted art gallery. There is no other way to ensure that you have an original piece of art and not a replica.

2. Test for the Statue Type

There are two types of bronze lions, a bonded or a molten statue. The latter is often the best way to cast any kind of bronze statue. To know what kind of statue you are dealing with, tap one of its hollow sections. If it makes a dull thud, then it is bonded. A molten bronze lion will produce a ringing sound.

You could also try rolling the statue (so long as it is safe to do so). A molten statue will produce a rattling sound due to the ceramics it contains. That&#;s true for bronze statues that have been closed by welding. Also, check that the lion statue feels colder when touched. If it does, then it is real.

3. Check the Patina

As stated earlier, a molten bronze is often the best. You can tell that by scratching part of the patina in a hidden section. Usually, molted bronze lions produce a bright golden color when scratched. However, scratching may not be recommended. That&#;s why you could try checking the bottom of the statue without any kind of patina.

6. Check for Professional Appraisal
 

Professional artists have an interest in original items. That&#;s why it is easy to find items that have been appraised by these professionals and given a stamp of approval. Instead of wasting time on other items, go only for those that have been appraised.

7. Look Out For Limited Edition Items

Just like other pieces of art, bronze lions may also be released in limited editions. The purpose is to make the item seem scarce so as to increase its value. Sometimes, limited editions may come as a result of the casting moulds wearing out. Importantly, the demand and fame of an artist will determine how valuable the limited edition shall be.

8. Find Out the Artist&#;s Legitimacy

Before you settle on any bronze lions, it is important to establish how legitimate the artist is. For starters, find out what he has done before. It is important to know if he or she has a history working as a bronze artist. Also, get to know if the artist has previously cold anything or not.

9. Check for Rod Marks

Often, bronze pieces are welded together to make a whole. As part of the finishing, the welded marks are removed in a process known as chasing. To create good bronze lions, an artist must take time and concentrate on the work at hand. If care is not taken, the statue may still feature mechanical etchings, rod marks, and areas with smooth polish. That&#;s an indication of a foundry made a low-quality bronze lion.

10. Consider the Dimensions

When hot cast, a bronze expands when heated and contracts when cooled. In finished form, a cooled casting is usually 2 to 3 percent smaller in size. For that reason, it is possible to know an original by comparing its finished size to the precast. Small bronze lions often indicate that you are dealing with an original.

Don&#;t buy bronze lions that do not tick all the right boxes. Always ensure that you end up with a piece you can be proud of. Many of these pieces can be viewed in the Canonbury Antiques Hertfordshire showroom - we also carry other bronze animals and cats, including panthers and bronze cheetahs. Welcome to the bronze jungle. 
 

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