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The
exceptional detail inherent in our sculptures is created as each piece is cast by the
"cire perdue," or "lost wax" method, dating back to ancient Egypt and
refined in Rome and later Paris. After a mold is created from an
original sculpture, wax is poured into the mold (1), and
after hardening and removing the mold, all the details are perfected (2).
The wax impression is
encased inside and out with refined clay (3) and (4). Once the clay sets, the wax impression is fired in a kiln; the
wax melts out of the clay mold, and is "lost" (5).
The void created by the melted wax in the clay mold is then filled with molten brass,
which is identical to the wax impression it replaced (6).
The clay mold
surrounding and inside the sculpture is delicately removed, revealing the cast sculpture,
which is subsequently finished by buffing, polishing and patinizing to give the piece its
final verdigris (green-grey) or bronze lustre (7), (8), and (9).
This labor intensive
method of lost wax casting produces unique sculptures with exceptionally fine detail of
lasting durability, and which are aesthetically warm and ruggedly handsome. Each piece is
cast and assembled by our artists one at a time, just as the originals were. Variations in
color, finish, size and shape will occur due to the individual craftsmanship inherent in
the process. |
| 5.Molds
after the wax has been "lost." |
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