Why do you want to purchase bronze sculptures from the artist and the bronze foundry? Why not buy it from the kiosk in the mall? I can only tell you why I would buy from the artist and not just anywhere. First of all, bronze has true value, and I want to make sure that what I am purchasing is truly bronze. But most of all I want that value of my bronze sculpture to increase with time.
When the artist creates the original model of the art, it is used to create a mold that can then be used to create a limited number of works of art, whether it is a candlestick or toy or replica of an animal. After a number of castings the detail of the work decreases. All castings made from this original mold are called original editions. They are often signed and numbered by the artist or carry a written guarantee that they are from the original edition.
Second editions can be made from a mold in another bronze foundry, not overseen by the artist. Surmoulages are bronze sculptures made from a mold created from a cast piece. As each cast piece is used to make another mold, the detail and intricate aspects of the piece decrease. The edges on the bronze candlestick, or the facial expression on the figurine, or the spokes on the bronze car may not be as exquisite as on an original edition.
You need to be wary of “fakes” as well. Bronze sculptures with a famous artist’s name on it, may not have been made by that bronze expert at all! Think what a poor investment that would be.
So, if you are a discriminating buyer who wants the most value for your investment, and wants the best product that the bronze artist has to offer, buy from the artist, whether at his or her foundry, or from the on-line website. Make sure you get an original, or an original edition with a written guarantee. Buy from the artist!