Description: This paper offers a new interpretation of the first chapters of Natural History 34 on bronze alloys (aes Corinthium, aes Deliacum, aes Aegineticum). Particular attention is paid to the structure of this section; the literary elaboration of artistic information; Cicero’s influence; Pliny’s cultural interests and their impact on his description of the alloys; Pliny’s art historical perspective on alloys.