What is it that gives metals that smokey look? Is it the finish?
Thanks.
Yes, that is called “patina.”
It is oxidation or sulpherization of the metal’s surface. It develops naturally over a long period of time, but it can be helped along with chemical treatment.
Alrighty, thank you very much!
Wham-bam-thank you-Ma’am.
Welcome to SD, Bakero.
Both of your examples are chemical patinas applied to brass or bronze and anyone creating works in those metals will have a working knowledge of creating patinas.
Back in the day, chemical patina formulas were jealously guarded secrets and even today it is not uncommon for artists and casting foundries to develop their own secret formulas, but the basic agents are well known.
A common description for metals that are treated to get that look is “antiqued.”
You say “pateena” and I say “pateyena”…