Maiden 1585 - 1594

This sculpture of a Maiden was made by Barthélemy Prieur in the late 16th or early 17th century, using bronze. The bronze-casting process is crucial to understanding this work. Prieur would have started with a wax model, carefully defining the drapery and the figure's poised stance. This was then invested in a mold, melted out, and replaced with molten bronze. After cooling, the mold was broken away, revealing the sculpture. This process is labor intensive, requiring a deep understanding of materials. Note the color and texture of the bronze, the result of patination—a chemical treatment that enriches the surface. The sculpture has a weighty presence which is typical for the material: bronze signifies value, permanence, and power. Ultimately, this sculpture speaks to the intersection of craft, material, and social status in the Renaissance, illustrating how materials and making processes elevate an artwork beyond mere representation.