Decorative metal artworks are functional and ornamental pieces made from metals and shaped by casting, hammering, stamping, or forging.
In interior spaces, these beautiful metal works can be used as visual contrasts, working well in modern, industrial, classic, and eclectic interior designs.
Types of Metals Used in Decorative Art
1. Iron
Iron is valued for its strength, structure, and sculptural presence. Unlike steel and stainless steel, its malleability makes it a preferred choice for interior construction and décor pieces. Decorative features made from iron include:
- Wrought iron wall grilles.
- Staircase balustrades and railings.
- Iron-framed mirrors.
- Decorative fireplace screens.
- Sculptural accents.
2. Tin
Lightweight and easy to shape, tin has long been used for stamped and painted decorative metal art, especially wall art pieces. Decorative pieces made from tin include:
- Wall plaques and decorative signs.
- Decorative ceiling tiles.
- Embossed tin mirrors.
- Hanging tin ornaments.
- Wall sculptures made with recycled tin.
3. Copper
Copper’s warm tone and workability make it one of the most versatile metals used in decorative art. It can be hammered, cast, or left to develop a natural patina. Interior décor items made with copper include:
- Polished copper wall panels and art tiles.
- Sculptural lighting fixtures.
- Decorative vases and urns.
- Copper screens and room dividers.
- Statement coffee table (and other surfaces) centrepieces.
4. Bronze
Bronze is the most widely used metal for cast decorative metal art. It is durable and easily etched with fine detail. It is a great addition to both classical and modern interiors. Some interior décor items made with bronze are:
- Sculptured figurines.
- Busts and abstract statues.
- Decorative bowls and plates.
- Accent hardware, like knobs and handles.
- Console or pedestal display sculptures.
5. Brass
Soft, malleable, and highly decorative, brass features bring warmth and reflective elegance to interior design. Although brass requires occasional maintenance, its reward for visual richness is unsurpassed. Decorative items made from brass include:
- Wall art panels.
- Decorative door knockers and handles.
- Furniture accents and trims.
- Candleholders and sconces.
- Statement mirrors with brass frames.
6. Lead
Although lead is no longer widely used, it still appears in traditional and antique decorative metal art. It is valued more for form than for durability. Interior décor items made from lead include:
- Stained glass lead cames (narrow strips of lead used to join pieces of glass in stained glass work).
- Decorative lead planters.
- Antique lead figurines.
- Architectural detailing inserts.
- Historic wall relief accents.
Metals: Bringing Visual Aesthetics to Interior Design and Decoration
Decorative metal art remains an essential element in interior design because it combines permanence with artistry. Whether iron for structure, copper for warmth, or bronze for sculptural impact, each metal adds a distinct visual language to interior spaces when used thoughtfully and intentionally.
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