Ph. 831.717.4205
Commissioning a Will Pettee Bronze
The Process
A collaboration between your vision and my craft - from first conversation to final installation
Every Commission Begins with a Conversation
A commission is one of the most personal investments a collector, family, or institution can make. Whether you are seeking a portrait to honor a loved one, a figurative work for your estate, or a civic monument for a public space, the process is designed to be transparent, clear and deeply personal from first converstation to final installation.
How it Works
The Commission Process
01
Consultation
A complimentary conversation to understand your vision, intended setting, scale, and budget. We discuss concept, timeline, and whether bronze is the right medium for your goals
02
Concept & Maquette
I develop a small-scale maquette in clay for your review and approval. This defines the pose, composition, and emotional character of the final piece.
03
Full-Scale Model
Upon maquette approval and deposit, I sculpt the full-size clay model. You are invited to the studio for review sessions throughout this phase.
04
Foundry & Casting
The approved model is molded and cast in bronze by a master foundry using the lost-wax process. Patina is applied by hand to your specification.
4 - 12
Months Typical Timeline
Depending on size and complexity
Inquire
Starting Investment
Each commission is priced individually based on scale, complexity, and timeline
1 - 9
Limited Edition Castings
Each work cast is strictly limited edition with certificate of authenticity.
Portrait Commissions
The Commission Process
Bronze portrait commissions are among the most enduring gifts a family of institution can create. Whether honoring a founder, commemorating a loved one, or marking a milestone, a Pettee portrait is sculpted to capture not just the likeness - but the character, spirit, and presence.
Portrait commissions are available as busts, half-figures, or full life-size figures. Each portrait is cast in a strictly limited edition and accompanied by full provenance documentation.