Finding Lost Wax

This book recounts the revival of lost wax casting and Medardo Rosso’s creative serial casts, which transformed the traditional method into a modern, creative endeavour.

The global revival of lost wax casting -- Medardo Rosso and the modernity of lost-wax casting.

This book is a basic introduction to lost-wax casting with emphasis on jewelry making. It is designed to be used both as a textbook and a reference book and is directed primarily at beginners. Experienced casters, however, will probably find some useful ideas; they may even find some new techniques. Heavy emphasis is placed upon understanding why things are done in a particular way, rather than simply presenting a set of cookbook rules that will always work. The book is also available in a 8.5x11 inch comb-bound version for use in the shop or classroom. See ISBN 0-9679600-1-0.

An illustrated introduction to the art of making jewelry, providing a review of metallurgy, describing basic and advanced techniques, examining various surfaces, and including step-by-step instructions for several projects.

"This is the first study that adopts a comprehensive, thorough, and interdisciplinary approach toward early Chinese lost-wax castings. With more than 80 images, this book provides a study on the "norms," which are seldom questioned. By examining the reasons why Chinese founders often chose not to use the lost-wax process they had clearly mastered, the book refutes the idea that lost-wax technology is the only "right way" to cast bronzes. This study demonstrates that a "norm" is in many ways an illusion that twists our comprehension of art, technology, civilization, and history"--

Expands on the original work that first introduced artists and artisans to the materials, tools and techniques used to create original wax models for jewelry - both fine pieces and costume jewelry. The ancient method of lost-wax casting and traditional casting techniques of modeling in wax free that artist from many of the restrictions of traditional wax modeling, to provide greater freedom and spontaneity in creation, along with a newly achieved speed in execution. &break;&break;The author combines this understanding of the methods with his own practical experience to present the techniques in a concise, step-by-step format. He details the necessary materials and tools, and introduces the reader to their various characteristics and their roles in the jewelry-making process. He guides the artist through the various processes of wax modeling in several projects.

Detailed information and photographs show how to construct equipment and jewelry, castings, molds, and patterns for jewelry and metal.

"The following pages comprise a sourcebook of over 1000 designs since the turn of the century. It is intended as a tool not only for the consumer, but also for those seeking inspiration in their own design work. Each object is presented with a caption providing full technical details, as well as the websites of the manufacturers, or designers where relevant. Commentaries throughout shed light on the work of personalities and on trends, making the book more than just a catalogue of desirable objects."--BOOK JACKET.