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Figure 13

Diagram depicting a version of the direct lost-wax casting technique:

1) an armature is constructed of iron rods and wires;

2) a refractory clay investment is built up over the armature to form the core;

3) a wax layer is then modeled over the core and details refined in order to create a unique wax model;

4) the wax sprue system is joined to the model and core pins inserted through the wax and into the core;

5) the wax is invested in a refractory mold;

6) the mold is heated until dry and all traces of wax are melted and burned out;

7) the mold is filled with molten bronze;

8) when the metal is cool, the investment, core pins, and sprue system are removed;

9) chasing includes polishing, burnishing, and the addition of texture and sharpening of details as needed. As a final step, the surface is patinated.

Diagram based on X-radiographs of Adriaen de Vries (Netherlandish, 1556–1626), Juggling Man, ca. 1615, H. 76.8 cm (J. Paul Getty Museum, inv. 90.SB.44). See fig. 79, .