Brass Sculpture Value & Price Guide

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Brass Gauri Head Hindu Goddess Statue Full Face Lady ...
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Brass sculptures are timeless collectibles that blend industrial durability with a warm, golden aesthetic. From mid-century modern animal figures to ancient religious icons, these pieces serve as versatile focal points in both traditional and contemporary interior design.

Price Range: $100 - $150 based on recent sales

History of Brass Sculpture

The history of brass sculpture spans centuries, beginning with ancient civilizations that prized the alloy for its resemblance to gold and its resistance to corrosion. In the 17th century, intricate religious icons like the Gauri Head showcased the spiritual and artistic heights of brass casting in South Asia. During the mid-20th century, brass experienced a major resurgence in the West. The 1950s through the 1970s marked the 'Golden Age' of decorative brass, where Hollywood Regency and Mid-Century Modern styles popularized stylized animal figures, such as lions, dolphins, and cranes. Artists like Don DeMott further elevated the medium by combining brass elements with natural stone bases, creating the iconic nautical and abstract forms that remain highly sought after by collectors today.

Value Factors for Brass Sculpture

The typical price range for Brass Sculpture is $100 - $150 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

  • Age and Origin: Authentic 17th-century antiques command premium prices compared to 1970s mass-market decor.
  • Subject Matter: Large-scale animal figures like horses and lions typically hold higher market value than smaller, common motifs like sailboats.
  • Condition and Finish: The presence of original lacquer or a well-preserved natural patina can influence a collector's willingness to pay a premium.
  • Artisan Attribution: Signed pieces or those attributed to known design houses of the mid-century era significantly outperform generic vintage brass.

Tips for Buying Brass Sculpture

  • Check for a 'made in' stamp or artist signature, such as DeMott, which can significantly increase the item's provenance and value.
  • Use a magnet to test the piece; solid brass is non-magnetic, while brass-plated steel will attract the magnet.
  • Examine the patina to determine if you prefer a high-polish finish or the natural oxidation that develops on vintage pieces over decades.
  • Look for casting seams or sand-casting marks, as hand-finished details often indicate higher quality than mass-produced modern replicas.

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