I think the difference of opinion here (below) about "hand-rubbed" bronzes
is rather like the difference between National Parks and National Monuments
in the US.  Museums and national parks aim at preservation, sculpture
gardens and national forests aim at careful use (ok, so sometimes the
forests aren't so carefully used).

Klein points out that sculpture in museums can be considered damaged and
therefore verboten.  Booth points out that sculpture in gardens, without
barriers, can be considered loved.  Both of these view have their place,
just as both of the venues have their place.  I think these two are arguing
apples and oranges.

just my opinion,
Robin
Robin K Panza                         [log in to unmask]
Collection Manager, Section of Birds          ph:  412-622-3255
Carnegie Museum of Natural History       fax: 412-622-8837
4400 Forbes Ave.
Pittsburgh  PA  15213-4008  USA

-----Original Message-----
From: Janice Klein [mailto:[log in to unmask]]

Patinas are created by the artist as part of the original work of art.
Rubbing it off is equivalent to flaking off little bits of a Van Gogh.  It
certainly leaves a record of the actions of those who have seen it, but also
destroys the work in the process.   I have no problem with you or your
daughter rubbing your own bronze to death, but a museum has a public trust
to preserve the works in its care as best as it can.

-----Original Message-----
From: Nesdon Booth <[log in to unmask]>

>Frankly, I find well touched bronze statuary to be much more beautiful than
>pristine ones. There are a great many bronzes displayed in public places
>that are frequently touched, and that survive very well. The deposition of
>oils, and the polishing give a wonderful patina that quite charmingly
>records which part of the work people find most sensuous..
>
>There is a wonderful sculpture garden at UCLA, with many important works
>displayed at eye level adjacent to walking paths.
>

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