Commission a Museum-Caliber Bronze Sculpture by Fan Yu to Be Treasured for Generations
Since 2009, Fan Yu has been entrusted with creating private bronze sculpture commissions for collectors around the world.
His clients include professional breeders, handlers, and devoted pet owners, as well as the historic Santa Barbara Kennel Club, numerous national breed clubs, and the AKC Museum of the Dog.
Every sculpture is personally designed, sculpted, and molded by Fan Yu. The original sculpture is then entrusted to one of the world's leading fine art foundries, where it is cast in bronze using the traditional lost-wax process.
Fan Yu's goal is not simply to recreate an animal's physical appearance, but to breathe life into bronze—capturing its unique expression, character, and spirit while preserving the extraordinary bond between people and their animals for generations to come.
Because every sculpture is created entirely by the artist, only a very limited number of private commissions are accepted each year.
Size & Pricing
- Private bronze commissions start at USD $8,500
- Standard commission size: 16 inches (approximately 40 cm)
Larger sculptures, multiple-subject compositions, and life-size commissions are individually quoted based on the size, complexity, and artistic scope of each project.
Limited Editions
All sculptures are cast by one of the world's leading finest fine art foundries using the traditional lost-wax bronze casting process and are released in strictly limited editions.
Edition of 9
The commissioning collector receives Edition 1/9.
Edition of 3
The commissioning collector receives Edition 1/3.
Pricing is double that of the standard edition.
Unique Edition
Available exclusively for life-size sculptures.
Only a single bronze will ever be cast, making it a truly one-of-a-kind work of art.
Pricing is double that of the standard edition.
Please note: Two Artist's Proofs (A/P) are retained by the artist for every edition and are not included in the official edition size.
Timeline
Once production begins, the complete process—from the original clay sculpture through mold making, bronze casting, patination, and final finishing—typically requires 3–4 months.
Due to the current commission schedule, new projects are expected to begin approximately one year after a reservation has been confirmed.
Reference Materials
Exceptional portrait sculpture begins with exceptional reference materials.
Clients are encouraged to provide as many high-quality photographs and videos as possible, including multiple angles, natural standing poses, movement, and close-up details. These references are invaluable in capturing the animal's anatomy, coat texture, expression, personality, and unique spirit.
Commission Process
1. Reserve Your Commission
Secure your place in the commission schedule with a 50% deposit.
2. Artistic Consultation
Provide photographs and videos while discussing the vision, pose, and important details of the sculpture.
3. Original Sculpture
Fan Yu personally designs, sculpts, and molds the original artwork.
4. Client Approval
Review and approve the completed sculpture before bronze production begins.
5. Final Payment
The remaining balance is due upon approval of the original sculpture before into the molding process.
6. Bronze Casting
The artwork is cast in bronze using the traditional lost-wax process by one of America's leading fine art foundries, followed by chasing, patination, and final finishing.
7. Worldwide Delivery
Once completed, your sculpture is professionally packed and shipped worldwide. Shipping charges and any applicable import duties are the responsibility of the client.