Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Brass is an alloy made primarily from copper and zinc. It has a yellowish-gold color and is often used in sculpture, decorative objects, musical instruments, and jewelry.
Related terms
Alloy: A mixture of two or more metals that combines their properties to create a new material with specific characteristics.
Patina: The natural tarnish or color change that occurs on the surface of metals like brass over time, adding depth and character to the artwork.
Repoussé: A metalworking technique where a design is hammered into the backside of a sheet of metal (such as brass) to create a raised relief on the front side.