Figure of Admiral Samuel Hood 1782 - 1785

This sculpture of Admiral Samuel Hood was created in the late 18th century by Pierre Stephan, and is made of bronze. Bronze is a strong metal that can capture fine details, making it ideal for portrait sculptures like this one. The bronze would have started as a liquid, poured into a mold to create the Admiral’s form. Once cooled, it would have been carefully chased, a process of refining the surface with small tools to sharpen the details of the Admiral's face, uniform, and the nautical elements around him. The dark color is the result of a chemical treatment or applied coating, creating a somber and dignified effect. The artistry here isn’t just in the sculpting of the figure, but also in the skilled manipulation of the material itself. In this way, the sculpture bridges the gap between a work of fine art, and the skilled traditions of metalworking.