Insect Appraisal

Patinated Metal Insect Sculpture on Branch

This is a detailed metal sculpture depicting what appears to be a large insect, possibly an interpretation of a grasshopper, cricket, or preying mantis, perched on a branch. The sculpture is constructed primarily from sheet metal and wire, exhibiting a rich, multi-toned patination that combines coppery reds, bronze browns, and areas of darker blackish-green, suggesting intentional chemical treatment or natural aging of the metal, likely copper or a copper alloy. The insect itself is elongated, featuring a distinguishable head with prominent, stylized eyes, a cone-shaped protrusion on top, and a curled antenna-like element emanating from the front. Its body is segmented, tapering towards a curved tail. Delicate wire-like legs extend from the body, gripping a sculpted branch. The branch itself is artfully rendered with several stylized leaves, also exhibiting similar patination, and features scrolled ends for stability and aesthetic appeal. The construction appears to be a combination of soldering or welding techniques for joining the metal pieces, along with bending and shaping of the sheet and wire. There are no obvious signs of significant damage like breaks or large dents, though minor surface wear consistent with age and handling may be present within the patinated finish. The craftsmanship suggests a folk art or studio craft aesthetic, emphasizing textural and color variation over hyper-realistic detail. Its visual characteristics point towards a mid-to-late 20th-century origins, perhaps from the 1960s-1980s, a period when such metal art was popular as decorative household items. The overall condition appears good, with the patina being a key part of its intended aesthetic.