Chasing and Repoussé: Methods Ancient and Modern

Title: Chasing and Repoussé: Methods Ancient and Modern
Author: Nancy Megan Corwin
Publisher: Brynmorgen Press, Brunswick, Maine 2009
ISBN: 978-1-929565-32-0
184 pages, a gallery, an appendix and an index.

This book is a wonderful combination of “how-to” and “coffee table book”. The author covers all of the basics of chasing and repoussé: the various metals commonly used; making tools, using pitch, how to use the tools, high relief chasing, low relieve chasing, working flat, working hollow ware, etc. But throughout the book there are very high quality color pictures of both historic and contemporary metal work illustrating the processes being described. You get the best of both worlds: how to do it and pictures to inspire you.

For the record Ms Corwin defines chasing as various work done to the front of the metal: planishing, lining, matting and making crisp edges. Repoussé (which technically is the adjectival form of the French noun “repoussage”) focuses on the creation of volume,done primarily from the back. If there is an emphasis on the work done from the front, the piece is said to have been chased. If the emphasis is on the work done from the back then the term repoussé is used. Unfortunately, I have come to find the 2 terms loosely used interchangeably in much of the common blacksmith literature. It is only in the books on this topic or articles by skilled practitioners, that one sees the correct usage.

The Appendix: includes a section showing how to make 8 different Japanese chasing tools; a table with equivalent values for B&S gage sizes; a table with the make up and melting points of various metals commonly used; a section on hardening and tempering chisels and punches; a list of specialty suppliers.

The author, Nancy Megan Corwin, has a Master in Fine Arts from the University of Wisconsin, Madison. She has taught at many of the top craft schools. Her work is included in private and public collections to include The Victoria and Albert Museum in London.

-- AlbinDrzewianowski - 02 Jan 2011