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Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions

How can you tell real bronze from fake?

1 Answer
How can you tell real bronze from fake?
To tell real bronze from fake, try striking it gently with a hard object, such as the handle of a metal butter knife. A real bronze will produce a bell-like ringing sound that continues for a few seconds. Other metals will make a duller, short-lived thunking noise, more similar to what you'd expect to hear from a cowbell. If you're still unsure, take your piece to a certified appraiser to get an expert opinion. On 1stDibs, explore a diverse assortment of bronze art, furniture and jewelry.
1stDibs ExpertAugust 15, 2024
Shop for Bronze Furniture on 1stDibs
Cast Bronze Sconce, Verdegris Finish, Flor de Bronce Collection
Located in New York, NY
Inspired by the layered significance of the calla lily in Mexican culture, this collection blends the bold heft of cast bronze with sculpted, flowing curves that echo the flower’s fo...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Mexican Art Nouveau Wall Lights and Sconces

Materials

Bronze

Cast Bronze Sconce, Brasa Finish, Flor de Bronce Collection
Located in New York, NY
Inspired by the layered significance of the calla lily in Mexican culture, this collection blends the bold heft of cast bronze with sculpted, flowing curves that echo the flower’s fo...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Mexican Art Nouveau Wall Lights and Sconces

Materials

Bronze

Vintage Hermes Horse Bit Bottle Opener c.1970
Located in Bath, GB
A stunning example of a vintage equestrian bottle opener dating to c.1970. The handle is gold plated bronze fashioned in the form of a horse bit and the bottle opener itself made fr...
Category

Vintage 1970s French Mid-Century Modern Barware

Materials

Bronze, Stainless Steel

French Designer, Table Lamps, Bronze, France, 1940s
Located in High Point, NC
A pair of bronze table lamps designed and produced in France, c. 1940s. Dimensions of Lamp (inches): 5.3"H x 3.75"W x 3.75"D Dimensions of Lamp with Shade (inches): 8.9” H x 6.5” D...
Category

Vintage 1940s French Table Lamps

Materials

Bronze

Bruno Cassinari Italian Art Horse Sculpture Bronze 13/28
Located in Brescia, IT
"Horse Head" Bruno Cassinari Italy, 1970 Bronze Sculpture Artist Sign engraved on the bronze base Limited Edition 13/28 Excellent Condition
Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Modern Animal Sculptures

Materials

Bronze

Italian Empire Mahogany Center Table Grand Tour Specimen Marble Chessboard Top
Located in Forney, TX
A visually striking Empire style bronze mounted mahogany guéridon centre table with spectacular round exhibition style specimen marble top with central inlaid chessboard. Featuring ...
Category

20th Century Grand Tour Center Tables

Materials

Stone, Lapis Lazuli, Malachite, Multi-gemstone, Marble, Belgian Black Ma...

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