Patina

A film or an incrustation, often green, that forms on copper and bronze after a certain period of weathering and as a result of the oxidation of the copper. Different chemical treatments will also induce myriad colored patinas on new bronze works. Bronzes may additionally be painted with acrylic and lacquer. Source: Artlex.com, courtesy ichael Delahunt<br><br>Originally the green brown encrustation on bronze, this now includes the natural effects of age or exposure on a surface.<br><br>A sheen or coloration on any surface, either unintended and produced by age or intended and produced by simulation or stimulation, which signifies the object&#39;s age; also called aerugo, aes ustum, and verdigris. Typically aphoto of a patina in greens and browns thin layer of greens (sometimes reds or blues), usually basic copper sulfate, that forms on copper or copper alloys, such as bronze, as a result of oxidation and corrosion. Metal objects have naturally acquired patinas when long buried in soil or immersed in water. Such naturally formed patinas have come to be greatly prized. There are many formulae for the pickles and chemical treatments of metals which may be employed to encourage the formation of patinas.(pr. PA-t&#601;-n&#601;; p&#601;-TEE-n&#601; is also used, but many consider it a mispronunciation)A person who produces patinas is a patineur.Examples: Toshiko Takaezu (American, contemporary), Three Graces, three bronze elements, each patinated to a different color, each 70 x 23 x 23 inches, Grounds For Sculpture, Hamilton, NJ.Also see allegory and palimpsest.