Casting
Lost-wax casting
A model is translated into metal through wax, investment, heat, and a carefully controlled pour.
Materials & tools
- Wax
- Investment mold
- Bronze or other alloy
- Patina chemicals
In lost-wax casting, a wax model and its channels are encased in a heat-resistant mold. The wax is melted out and molten metal fills the void. The cooled cast is then chased, joined, and patinated.
The Met: Rodin’s AdamThe process
- 01
Model the form in wax
- 02
Add gates and vents
- 03
Build and fire the mold
- 04
Pour molten metal
- 05
Release, chase, and patinate