At the Lenz Art Foundry in Nuremberg, Germany, time appears to have stood still. For nearly 200 years, this historic workshop has been creating bronze figures and grave inscriptions using traditional methods that have remained virtually unchanged since the 19th century. The foundry represents a living testament to old-world craftsmanship in an increasingly mechanized world.
The workshop maintains its authentic character through the use of original equipment, including a wooden crane that dates back 150 years. This antique lifting device continues to move the heavy sand casting molds that can weigh several hundred pounds each. The sight of this historic crane in operation provides visitors with a glimpse into how metalworking was conducted generations ago.
The foundry specializes in creating bronze artworks and memorial inscriptions using time-honored sand casting techniques. These methods require exceptional skill and patience, as craftsmen must carefully prepare molds, heat bronze to precise temperatures, and pour the molten metal with expert precision. The process demands both technical knowledge and artistic sensibility to ensure each piece meets the highest standards of quality.
Photographer Stefan Finger has documented the foundry's operations, capturing the essence of this traditional craft that continues to thrive in modern times. His work showcases how the ancient art of bronze casting transforms raw materials into lasting works of art that are truly "cast for eternity," as described by journalist Helmut Broeg.
The Lenz Art Foundry stands as a remarkable example of how traditional German craftsmanship persists in contemporary society. By maintaining historical techniques and equipment, the foundry not only produces beautiful bronze works but also preserves an important cultural heritage for future generations to appreciate and learn from.
