Pamoja 2 - Heritage Bronze Statue

Lost wax casting is one of the oldest metalworking techniques in the world. The artist begins by sculpting the original form in wax, which is then covered in a clay mold. When heated, the wax melts away, leaving a hollow cavity that is filled with molten bronze. Once cooled, the clay mold is broken to reveal the finished bronze statue. Because the mold is destroyed in the process, each piece can only exist once.

The Living Figures collection is inspired by the stories, traditions, and identities that shape African cultures. Each piece carries a name drawn from African languages such as Lingala, Swahili, and Dogon, giving every West African bronze statue a meaning that goes beyond its form. The collection celebrates the diversity of the African continent through figures that embody community, heritage, love and everyday life. Every statue is cast by artisans in Burkina Faso using the lost wax casting technique, connecting ancient craftsmanship to contemporary art.

Every bronze statue in our collection is made by artisans in Burkina Faso using the traditional lost wax casting technique. The process begins with a hand-sculpted wax model, followed by mold creation, bronze pouring, and careful finishing. After casting, the patina is applied by hand, giving each statue its own tones, textures, and character. The entire process can take several weeks from start to finish.

Bronze is one of the most durable materials in art and requires very little maintenance. Dust your statue regularly with a soft dry cloth. Avoid using water, chemical cleaners, or abrasive materials as these can damage the patina. Keep your bronze statue away from direct sunlight for extended periods to preserve the depth of its color. Over time, the patina may evolve naturally, which adds character and authenticity to the piece.

Each bronze statue is cast using the lost wax casting method, which requires the mold to be completely destroyed after a single casting. This means no two statues can ever be identical. Beyond the casting process, the patina is applied by hand by artisans in Burkina Faso, creating subtle variations in color, texture, and finish that make every piece truly its own.

All of our bronze sculptures are made in Burkina Faso, West Africa. They are created by master artisans who have inherited the lost wax casting technique through generations. Each piece is cast, finished, and patinated entirely by hand in their workshops. By working directly with these artisans, UMOJA supports authentic West African art and craftsmanship.

A bronze statue is built to last for centuries. Bronze is an extremely resilient metal that does not rust or deteriorate under normal indoor conditions. Many ancient bronze sculptures dating back thousands of years are still intact today in museums around the world. With minimal care, your statue will maintain its beauty for generations.