Bronze sculptors employ a combination of technical skill and artistic vision to replicate delicate materials like fabric and hair in solid metal. The process begins with careful observation of how these materials behave in real life—noting the drape of cloth or the flow of individual hair strands.

Most bronze sculptures start as clay models where artists can create intricate textures. For fabric, sculptors use tools to mimic folds and wrinkles, sometimes even pressing real fabric into clay to capture authentic patterns. When rendering hair, they might carve individual strands or create stylized masses that suggest movement.

The lost-wax casting method preserves these fine details. Molten bronze flows into every crevice of the mold, capturing even the subtlest textures. After casting, artisans use chasing tools to refine surfaces and patinas to enhance depth—darkening recesses to accentuate folds in "fabric" or adding highlights to "hair."

Some sculptors employ indirect techniques, casting separate pieces (like hair strands) and assembling them later. Others use specialized tools to engrave surface patterns directly into cooled bronze. The final result demonstrates how rigid metal can convincingly imitate soft, flowing materials through masterful craftsmanship.