Robert Leggat Sculptures & Foundry

About Robert Leggat & His Art
Robert Leggat, also known as Robbie, is a highly acclaimed South African sculptor, specializing in anatomically precise and emotionally expressive wildlife and nature-inspired works. His dedication to capturing the essence of his subjects sets him apart—he invests countless hours observing, drawing, and sketching from life, often referencing taxidermy specimens from museums to ensure accuracy and sensitivity in every texture and form. This painstaking attention to detail gives his sculptures a remarkable realism and vitality.
He studied Fine Art at the Cape Technicon (now Cape Peninsula University of Technology) and later completed his qualification at Pretoria Technicon in 1988. His passion for three-dimensional art led him to an extraordinary career in bronze, silver, and stainless-steel sculpture.
Bronze Fields Foundry: A Singular Vision
In 2006, Leggat founded Bronze Fields Foundry on his smallholding just outside Plettenberg Bay in Harkerville. At this studio, he maintains a uniquely hands-on role—personally overseeing every step from concept to completion. This includes: Sketching and conceptual design, building a supporting armature, creating maquettes (scale models), Casting via the lost wax (cire-perdu) process, Patinating the finished piece and occasionally incorporating semi-precious stones (like tourmalines and garnets) into his works
Bronze Fields also hosts exhibitions and “bronze pourings” where visitors can watch the enthralling casting process unfold firsthand—and even try their hand at sculpting.
Iconic Works & Public Commissions
One of Leggat’s most beloved and recognized public works is the life-size Dolphin and Calf bronze sculpture, installed in a Plettenberg Bay traffic circle often fondly called the “Dolphin Circle.” Unveiled in December 2000, it swiftly became a landmark and symbol of the town, greeting residents and travelers alike as they enter.
The creation process is a story in itself—Leggat sculpted the piece under a tree in the Robberg Coastal Corridor with a sea view, then had it cast in Cape Town before bringing it back to Plett for installation. Funds for the public piece were raised through selling a metre-high maquette and community contributions.
Another notable commission is a 4metre-high Archangel Michael sculpture installed at Michaelhouse in KwaZulu-Natal.
Global Reach & Artistic Recognition
Leggat’s sculptures are not confined to public spaces—they are highly sought after by collectors across South Africa, Britain, Switzerland, Germany, and the United States. His compositions command demand in both private residences and corporate collections.
In the 1990s, one of his contemporary wildlife sculptures—a life-size hippo head water feature—achieved exceptional acclaim, fetching £24,000 at a Christie’s sale, far exceeding its estimated value of £4,000–6,000.