How does the brittleness of cast iron limit the height of figurative sculptures?

Cast iron, while valued for its durability and cost-effectiveness in sculpture, poses significant challenges for tall figurative artworks due to its inherent brittleness. Unlike more ductile metals, cast iron fractures easily under stress, particularly in slender or extended forms. This limitation forces artists and engineers to compromise on height or adopt reinforcement techniques, such as internal armatures or thicker profiles, to prevent cracking. Additionally, environmental factors like wind or seismic activity exacerbate these risks, making towering cast iron sculptures impractical. As a result, most large-scale figurative works opt for materials like bronze or steel, which offer greater flexibility and resilience. Understanding these material constraints helps sculptors balance artistic vision with structural feasibility.