What are the historical precedents for using concrete in animal sculptures?

The use of concrete in animal sculptures has a rich history, dating back to ancient civilizations where durable materials were prized for public art and architectural adornments. One of the earliest examples includes Roman concrete (opus caementicium), which was used to create decorative animal reliefs and statues in public spaces. During the Renaissance, artists experimented with concrete-like materials to achieve detailed and lasting animal forms.

In the 19th and 20th centuries, concrete became a popular medium for modernist and brutalist sculptors, who appreciated its versatility and strength. Iconic examples include the animal sculptures in Barcelona's Park Güell by Antoni Gaudí, which blended concrete with mosaic techniques. Today, contemporary artists continue to innovate with concrete, creating lifelike or abstract animal sculptures for urban landscapes and private collections.

This enduring material’s adaptability and resilience ensure its place in the evolution of animal sculpture art.