Creating a bronze sculpture doesn’t end with casting—the post-casting cleanup and finishing process is crucial for achieving a professional, long-lasting result. Here are the key steps involved:

1. Removing Investment Material: After casting, the sculpture is covered in a ceramic shell or investment material. Carefully chisel or sandblast away the residue to reveal the raw bronze surface.

2. Chasing and Welding Repairs: Inspect the sculpture for imperfections like seams or air bubbles. Use chasing tools to refine details and TIG welding to fix any cracks or gaps.

3. Sandblasting and Polishing: Sandblasting removes oxidation and smooths the surface. Follow with hand-polishing using progressively finer abrasives (80 to 600 grit) for a uniform finish.

4. Applying Patina: Heat the sculpture evenly and apply chemical patinas (e.g., ferric nitrate for greens, liver of sulfur for browns) to create desired colors. Seal with wax or lacquer to protect the finish.

5. Final Sealing: Coat the sculpture with microcrystalline wax or clear lacquer to prevent tarnishing and enhance durability. Buff for a lustrous sheen.

By following these steps, artists ensure their bronze sculptures remain visually striking and structurally sound for generations.