Springbok

Artwork Details

Born in Rotterdam, Holland, Loet Vanderveen grew up near a zoo that shaped his lifelong fascination with animals. After escaping occupied Holland during World War II and serving in the R.A.F., he studied ceramics with Fong Chow at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York before establishing a mountaintop studio in Big Sur, California. His stylized bronze animal sculptures, distinguished by their rich patinas and graceful forms, are held in collections worldwide, including those of Queen Elizabeth II and President Reagan. He exhibited at the De Young Museum in San Francisco and the Museum of Contemporary Crafts in New York.

Production Timeline

Wax Model Prepared

Studio record

Wax positive sculpted and refined by Loet Vanderveen at his Big Sur studio.

Ceramic Shell Applied

Studio record

Multiple layers of ceramic shell applied using the lost-wax casting method.

Bronze Poured

Studio record

Molten bronze poured and allowed to cool. Mold broken away to reveal raw casting.

Chasing and Finishing

Studio record

Surface refined by hand. Seams removed, texture restored, and form perfected.

Patina Applied

Studio record

Chemical patina applied to achieve the deep teal-green finish with gold-tone horn accents.

Signed and Numbered

Studio record

Signed by Loet Vanderveen. Numbered 7/152 on the base.

Certificate of Authenticity

Condition Report

Patina consistent with age and artist specification. No chips, cracks, or repairs. Minor surface wear consistent with display. Base is level and stable. Signature and edition number legible.

Appraisal

Vanderveen bronzes at this scale sell at auction and gallery for $2,500 to $6,000 depending on edition size and condition. Artist deceased 2015; remaining editions are finite.

Provenance

Dust with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid chemical cleaners or abrasive materials. Indoor display recommended. If displayed outdoors, apply museum-grade microcrystalline wax coating annually. Handle with clean cotton gloves to prevent oil transfer. Avoid direct sunlight for extended periods to preserve patina consistency. For professional conservation, contact your gallery.