Kea Bust | Bronze Sculpture

$850.00

Bronze Kea Bust is an original sculptural piece by Ashleigh Ritchie, inspired by the playful and inquisitive nature of New Zealand’s iconic kea. The sculpture captures the bird’s intelligent gaze and curious posture, bringing its character vividly to life.

Every detail - from the subtle curve of its beak to the textured feathers - has been carefully shaped to convey both the kea’s wild energy and gentle charm. The piece invites the viewer to connect with the spirit of this extraordinary native bird, pausing to appreciate its cleverness and presence.

Crafted with attention to form, proportion, and texture, this kea bust balances realism with a touch of artistic interpretation, creating a work that is both striking and intimate. It lingers in the mind as a celebration of New Zealand’s natural beauty and the lively spirit of one of its most beloved birds.

Brass Base: 120mm x 80mm
Kea: 130mm x 100mm
(Measurements are approximate)

Materials & Process
This kea bust was hand-sculpted in oil-based clay, then encased in a custom silicone mould to create a wax model. Using the lost-wax casting method, the sculpture was cast in bronze, capturing every intricate detail of the original model. The brass backing/base was custom-cut and crafted by Ashleigh Ritchie, completing the piece with precision and care. Each original is finished to highlight the natural texture and character of the kea, ensuring a lasting, dynamic work of art.

Completed - 2014

Bronze Kea Bust is an original sculptural piece by Ashleigh Ritchie, inspired by the playful and inquisitive nature of New Zealand’s iconic kea. The sculpture captures the bird’s intelligent gaze and curious posture, bringing its character vividly to life.

Every detail - from the subtle curve of its beak to the textured feathers - has been carefully shaped to convey both the kea’s wild energy and gentle charm. The piece invites the viewer to connect with the spirit of this extraordinary native bird, pausing to appreciate its cleverness and presence.

Crafted with attention to form, proportion, and texture, this kea bust balances realism with a touch of artistic interpretation, creating a work that is both striking and intimate. It lingers in the mind as a celebration of New Zealand’s natural beauty and the lively spirit of one of its most beloved birds.

Brass Base: 120mm x 80mm
Kea: 130mm x 100mm
(Measurements are approximate)

Materials & Process
This kea bust was hand-sculpted in oil-based clay, then encased in a custom silicone mould to create a wax model. Using the lost-wax casting method, the sculpture was cast in bronze, capturing every intricate detail of the original model. The brass backing/base was custom-cut and crafted by Ashleigh Ritchie, completing the piece with precision and care. Each original is finished to highlight the natural texture and character of the kea, ensuring a lasting, dynamic work of art.

Completed - 2014

Care Instructions – Bronze Kea Bust
Your bronze Kea sculpture is a unique, hand-crafted piece, designed to bring character and charm to your space. With proper care, it will remain striking and beautiful for many years to come.
Please follow these guidelines to help preserve its patina, surface detail, and overall integrity.

Handle your sculpture carefully. When lifting or moving, support it from the base or sturdy parts, avoiding any delicate edges or protrusions. Do not apply pressure to thin or extended features.

This sculpture is designed to hang on the wall using the screws provided. Ensure you mount it on a secure, solid surface, and double-check that the hardware is fully tightened before releasing the sculpture. Avoid hanging in high-traffic areas where it could be bumped.

To maintain the bronze finish, gently dust with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid water, household cleaners, or abrasive products, which can damage the patina. If needed, a microfiber cloth slightly dampened with distilled water may be used, but always dry immediately.

Keep the sculpture in a stable indoor environment, away from direct sunlight, high humidity, or extreme temperature fluctuations. Avoid placing near heat sources or vents that could accelerate oxidation or discoloration.

If storing the sculpture, wrap in acid-free tissue or soft cloth and place in a padded box. For display, check periodically that screws and wall mounts remain secure. Regular gentle dusting will help preserve the bronze and its patina.

With careful handling and display, your Ashleigh Ritchie bronze Kea bust will continue to be a captivating and enduring piece in your home.