What is the patina on bronze?

Patina (/pəˈtiːnə/or /ˈpætɪnə/) is a thin layer that variously forms on the surface of copper, brass, bronze and similar metals (tarnish produced by oxidation or other chemical processes), or certain stones, and wooden furniture (sheen produced by age, wear, and polishing), or any similar acquired change of a surface …

What is patina in sculpture?

Patination refers to the process of developing or forming a colour upon a surface or sculpture. A patina can be thought of as a desirable, protective or even decorative tarnish or finish. This is most commonly seen on works of bronze or copper.

How long does bronze take to patina?

Patina formation on bronze objects Shortly after a bronze object is produced, a very thin layer of a brown protective patina forms on the surface. Subsequently, depending on accessibility of moisture and other agents, this patina may slowly become evenly blue/green (this may take 30 to 50 years).

What causes the green patina on bronze statues?

Bronze will oxidize when exposed to air, developing a patina coating. A brown, black, red or blue to green coating on bronze is a sign of normal, harmless corrosion. This outer layer protects the inner layers of the bronze object from deteriorating. This coating is sometimes considered attractive or desirable, as well.

What does it mean to ‘patina’ bronze?

A patina is the outside color of bronze. It is the result of a chemical reaction with the copper in the bronze that literally changes the surface color of the bronze and it can be either natural, man-made or both. A great example of a natural patina can be seen on the Statue of Liberty.

Does brass patina like copper?

Brass is made of copper and zinc, so the patina takes on a greenish cast like that of copper. There might be products out there (glazes, etc.) that do the same thing, but I already had the paint and thought I would give that a try first.

What is patinated bronze?

What is patinated bronze. What is patinated bronze? Patina is a thin layer that variously forms on the surface of copper/brass/ bronze and similar metals. Or certain stones, and wooden furniture (sheen produced by age, wear, and polishing), or any similar acquired change of a surface through age and exposure.