The bronze sculptures of the Classical period (5th-4th century BCE) continue to profoundly influence modern sculptural practices through their technical mastery and aesthetic principles. Greek artists perfected the lost-wax (cire perdue) casting method - a technique still used today with remarkable similarity to ancient processes. Modern sculptors study Classical works like the Riace Bronzes or the Artemision Zeus to understand ideal proportions, dynamic contrapposto poses, and lifelike anatomical detailing that became foundational to Western art.

Contemporary artists frequently adopt the Classical approach to surface finishing, employing patination methods derived from ancient recipes to create nuanced color effects. The hollow-casting innovation developed by Greek sculptors remains standard practice, allowing for larger, more stable bronze works. Perhaps most significantly, the Classical emphasis on capturing human expression and movement continues to inform modern figurative sculpture, seen in works by artists like Giacometti and Bourgeois who reinterpret ancient techniques with contemporary vision.

Modern conservation science also benefits from studying Classical bronzes, with their sophisticated alloy mixtures and corrosion-resistant compositions inspiring new material research. The seamless integration of technical precision and artistic vision achieved by Classical sculptors sets a benchmark that continues to challenge and inspire artists working in bronze today.