Lost wax process - a method of casting metal sculpture requiring a wax version of the original model. The wax form is encased in heat resisistant molding material. baking the mold causes the wax to melt and run out, leaving a cavity in its place. The cavity is filled with molten metal which solidifies to become the sculpture when the mold has been broken open.

Patina - the surface of metal sculpture that results from natural oxidation or careful application of heat, chemicals and polishing agents.

Surmoulage - the fraudulent practice of taking an unauthorized casting from a bronze sculpture rather than from the artist's original.

By Pamela Michaelis, founder of The Collector's Guide and former host of “Gallery News” radio show on KHFM 95.5 , classical radio in Albuquerque.

Originally appeared in
The Collector’s Guide to Santa Fe and Taos - Volume 9