Empty Conker Shell Bronze Sculpture

A miniature sculpture of an empty horse chestnut shell, spikes and all, cast in solid bronze with the stalk still attached. A small, unpretentious object that will mean something to anyone who spent autumn afternoons collecting conkers as a child — which is most of us.

Ten grams, and a very satisfying piece to pick up and turn over in your hand.

Height 2cm • Width 3.2cm • Depth 2cm

Please note that all our tiny bronzes are cast and finished by hand. This may mean that there are slight differences in the colour of the patina, and sometimes you may find small inconsistencies in the cast, e.g. a minuscule air bubble or slight abrasion marks where the finished castings have been fettled (filed). These differences won't detract from the beauty of your miniature sculpture; if anything they will show, without a doubt, that these pieces are all individually handmade.

Miniature Bronze Sculpture FAQs

How should I keep my miniature bronze sculpture in tip top condition?

These miniature bronze sculptures are so easy to care for: they have been given a dark brown wax coating over their natural brassy colour, and will need nothing more than a gentle wipe with a soft cloth to keep the dust off.

What's the difference between foundry-cast and hot-cast?

Absolutely nothing. They're two different terms for the same thing: molten bronze is poured into a mould and left to cool before being removed, when the resulting sculpture is then finished and patinated.

What about cold-cast, is that the same?

No, cold-casting is a different method, in which bronze powder is mixed with resin and poured into a moud to set, effectively creating a faux bronze sculpture. There is no heat involved, and the finished product is significantly lighter (and cheaper) than a foundry-cast bronze piece. At Alcove Art, all of our pieces are foundry-cast.

All images © 2026 Gill Pottle