The Entombment 

Andrea Briosco, called Riccio, created "The Entombment" in bronze sometime between the late 15th and early 16th centuries. The lost-wax casting technique, in which molten bronze replaces a wax model, allowed Riccio to capture incredibly fine detail. The work’s material has profoundly influenced its appearance. Bronze offers a unique combination of weight, color, and form. The density of the metal gives the scene a sense of gravity, while the dark brown patina enhances the somber mood. The casting process allowed Riccio to create a complex composition with figures in high relief, adding depth and drama to the scene. Riccio was deeply engaged with the traditions of bronze casting, a skill closely associated with both craft and fine art. The labor-intensive process, from creating the initial model to the final polishing, speaks to the value placed on skilled handcraftsmanship during the Renaissance. This merging of technical skill and artistic expression challenges traditional distinctions between art and craft, reminding us that the meaning of an artwork is deeply rooted in its making.