Collections

10 things to consider when selecting, installing, and maintaining outdoor sculpture

outdoor sculpture

Whether you’re looking for a new stone sculpture for your garden or adding to a collection of bronze statues, here are a few tips you might want to consider before making an outdoor sculpture purchase.

1. Buy what makes you happy

– from a reputable dealer. That means sticking with a dealer who is registered with one of the main dealer associations, such as the Art Dealers Association of America (ADAA). Building a relationship with a dealer will also help, because you can then ask advice without feeling like you have to buy.

2. Consider scale.

If your outside space is large, you may want to think about pieces that are larger than what you’d normally select.

3. Develop a plan to protect it before you install it.

Because outdoor sculpture is constantly exposed to the elements, you’ll want to consider the piece’s construction, materials, and location. Hire a professional installer to ensure that your sculpture is secure in its location and sits on a base or platform that is sturdy enough for its weight and size.

outdoor sculptures

4. Provide a level location with proper grading.

If the sculpture is in a place where there will be water runoff, it may suffer from excessive water accumulating at the base. It may also be susceptible to chemical runoff from landscaping. Make sure you place it out of harm’s way – either on an elevated platform or in a place with excellent drainage.

5. Set a consistent schedule of maintenance.

Consult a professional restorer regularly to see if your sculpture needs cleaning, waxing, etc. and to keep it in good overall condition.

6. Make sure others are aware of the limitations.

Speak with your landscapers and irrigation specialists in case vegetation needs to be trimmed or sprinklers need to be redirected, to keep your sculpture free from damage and away from water as much as possible.

bird sculpture

7. Plan for emergencies.

If you live in an area that is prone to extreme weather, consider seasonal storage for your sculpture or engage with an art handler to put together an emergency evacuation plan.

8. Understand what your insurance covers and what it doesn’t.

Consider an “all-risk” valuable articles insurance policy that will cover all types of damage and loss. One thing that is never covered: gradual or natural deterioration of the piece, or what is called inherent vice. Be aware of this and work with your conservator to prevent deterioration of your outdoor sculpture.

9. Get an appraisal.

One of the best ways to ensure that your sculpture is fully protected is to have your piece appraised regularly and send a copy to your insurance company.

10. Consult with professionals.

Conservators are educated specialists who have spent years learning their trade and are qualified to evaluate and repair works of art. These specialists look for the least intrusive means of conservation and restoration and can help you maintain your sculptures as well.

Insights and expertise

We help you stay ahead and informed with these helpful tips and tricks for protecting your home, car, and more.
retro toy collection
Are your vintage toys valuable? 6 things to know
When you were young, you collected Hot Wheels, Pez dispensers, and Lionel trains. You bought all of the accessories you could find and kept them in excellent condition. But are your vintage toys worth money now – or is their only value sentimental? Let’s take a look at how you can tell an old toy from a collectible worth insuring.
coin collection
The importance of reappraising fine art and collections to current value
Keep your fine art and “passion assets” protected with an up-to-date, accurate appraisal.
woman hanging painting at gallery
A collector’s guide to appraisals
An appraisal provides documentation to substantiate the existence, condition, and value of your collection.
Collecting On Board: Fine Wine and Rare Spirits | Chubb
For many collectors, fine wine and rare spirits are an essential part of life on board. A carefully chosen vintage shared with guests at anchor or a rare bottle opened during an evening at sea adds to the experience of travel and hospitality that defines yacht ownership.
collector baseball in case
The power behind the sports memorabilia market
Sports memorabilia can refer to any item connected to an athlete, team, or significant sports event that evokes memories of a particular sport, team, player, or era.
Collecting On Board: Luxury
Luxury handbags, fine jewelry, watches, and other personal collectibles often travel with their owners aboard private yachts.
Next gen’s passion for pop culture collectibles
Collectibles are a way to own a piece of the zeitgeist. For the younger generations, capturing the collective consciousness of the past has turned a hobby into an investment.
Collecting On Board: Fine Art
Safeguard fine art on your yacht with expert tips for installation and care. Keep your artwork secure and preserved in optimal condition at sea.

Get a personal insurance quote

Work with an independent agent to get personalized insurance solutions.