Repoussé and Chasing (Jewelry-making)

Repoussé and Chasing are two traditional techniques used in the field of jewelry-making, which involve forming and shaping metals into intricate designs. Repoussé involves using a hammer and miniature chisels to create a raised, three-dimensional relief on the surface of a metal sheet, while Chasing is a method of creating intricate patterns and textures by hammering small indentations into the metal using specialized tools.

Repoussé is an ancient technique that dates back to the Bronze Age and was developed independently by many different cultures, including the Egyptians, Greeks, and Celts. In modern jewelry-making, the technique is typically used to create large, sculptural designs with plenty of depth and dimensionality. The process involves first heating the metal sheet to make it more malleable, then pressing it into a mold or stylus to create a rough outline of the design. The sheet is then flipped over and hammered from the other side to create raised areas, carefully shaping and refining the design throughout the process.

Chasing, on the other hand, is a technique that involves individual, repeated strikes with various specialized tools to create lines, textures, and patterns on the metal surface. Unlike Repoussé, which typically involves working from the back of the metal sheet, Chasing is done from the front, with the metal piece anchored securely in place on a workbench. The tools used in Chasing are specially designed to create specific patterns and textures, such as the dendritic or feathery lines of "spitstrokes."

Together, Repoussé and Chasing are often used in combination to create intricate, detailed designs with plenty of texture and dimensionality. The resulting pieces can range from ornate, sculptural jewelry to small, intricate pieces of metalwork. Both techniques require a high level of technical skill and precision, as well as a keen eye for design and a deep understanding of the properties of metal. However, with practice and patience, anyone can learn to use Repoussé and Chasing to create beautiful and unique pieces of jewelry and metalwork.