Bronze is an alloy
Bronze is a copper-based alloy, with copper as the main component. Barthélémy Bronze uses an alloy of copper and tin. It contains at least 85% copper, a guarantee of quality and durability. Copper is responsible for the yellow-orange color, while tin provides strength.
Bronze is not brass
Brass is an alloy of copper, with only about 65% copper, and zinc (instead of tin).
This is the main reason for its lower cost compared to bronze.
Visually, brass differs from bronze by its more yellow hue.
Bronze is durable
Bronze is a “living” material: when exposed to environmental factors, it will gradually develop a patina, eventually forming its own protective layer called “verdigris.”
The formation of verdigris is a natural and normal phenomenon. Unlike rust, it does not eat away at the metal. In fact, the metal remains perfectly intact beneath this layer. It can be removed as part of professional restoration
Bronze has many uses in funerary applications.
Used since Antiquity, bronze can be employed as a funerary ornament on a monument (either “classic” or cremation) :
- Name lettering
- Applied motif
- Frame for porcelain photo
- Statue
- Lantern, holy water font
It can also be used on :
- A columbarium niche
- A memorial plaque
Bronze is easy to maintain
Regular cleaning helps preserve bronze and slows its natural patination. It is especially recommended during “high-risk” periods, such as autumn, when wet leaves may fall on the grave.
Performing routine maintenance on a bronze memorial ornament is within everyone’s reach, using simple steps and no specialized equipment.
