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The "lost wax method" is the oldest
way of casting bronze known to mankind. Although modern technology has
contributed some refinements to ensure more uniform quality, this technique has
remained essentially unchanged for some 6000 years. |
| 1) |
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A flexible rubber mold is made from the original
sculpture. |
| 2) |
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A positive wax model is made by pouring hot wax
into the mold. |
| 3) |
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When cool, the wax is removed from the mold and
detailed |
| 4) |
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The wax model is then submerged in a special
foundry plaster or stuccoed with layers of sand to produce a ceramic shell of
sufficient strength to withstand the weight of the molten bronze. |
| 5) |
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The wax is then melted out of the shell; thus, the
term "lost wax method". |
| 6) |
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The molten bronze is then poured into the ceramic
shell and left to cool. |
| 7) |
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When the shell is chipped away, the raw bronze
casting is revealed. |
| 8) |
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The bronze is then sandblasted and "chased", or
finished using metal finishing tools. |
| 9) |
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Finally, the surface of the bronze is patinated; a
process using chemicals and heat to achieve the desired finish. |
| 10) |
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A hot wax finish is then applied to ensure a
beautiful lustrous patina. |
