Creating the effect of light transmission through opaque bronze is a masterful blend of artistry and technical skill. Sculptors achieve this illusion through several sophisticated methods.

One technique involves carefully manipulating surface textures. By polishing certain areas to a high sheen and leaving others matte, artists create contrasts that mimic the interplay of light and shadow. The reflective polished sections catch ambient light, giving the impression of luminosity emanating from within the dense metal.

Another approach utilizes strategic hollowing. Some sculptors carve out thin sections or create internal cavities in the bronze mass. When light hits these precisely calculated voids, it produces a subtle glow that appears to penetrate the solid material. This method requires exacting precision to maintain structural integrity while achieving the desired optical effect.

Patination plays a crucial role as well. By applying specialized chemical treatments to different areas of the sculpture, artists can create color gradients that simulate light absorption and diffusion. Cooler tones might suggest shadowed regions, while warmer hues imitate illuminated sections.

Modern sculptors sometimes incorporate actual light sources, embedding LED elements within the bronze casting. When properly positioned, these hidden lights create convincing effects of internal illumination without compromising the sculpture's solid appearance.

The mastery lies in making these technical interventions invisible to viewers. Successful execution results in bronze works that seem to defy material physics, appearing simultaneously solid and luminous - a testament to the sculptor's ability to manipulate perception through material mastery.