It's a rollover week

We have started to learn the processes of chasing and repoussé via a demonstration at the evening class. The best gauge of metal sheet to use for this is between 0.5 mm and 0.7 mm. We found one piece of copper sheet the correct thickness, and this is being used in the demonstration. Unfortunately we couldn't find any more, so we are using the rolling mill to thin down thicker pieces for our own work. Have done 3 anneal/roll cycles so far, and there is still some way to go!

For those not familiar with chasing and repoussé: the metal is shaped from front and back using steel punches, while it is supported by a slightly elastic supporting surface made from a mixture of pitch, plaster of Paris and tallow. Very traditional. I'll take along my camera next time and get some pictures for a future post.

And the reason for the photo? According to Wikipedia, the Statue of Liberty was formed using repoussé. They must have had a big bowl for the pitch ...