82 Descripiion of Bidder y Ware* [no. 1, new series^ 
with the other hand the workmen holds a sort of chisel (vide Fig. 
No. 3), with which he cuts and smooths the model. The model 
No. 3. 
thus carefully prepared, is next covered with a mixture of wax and 
oil boiled together (vid-j Fig. No. 4), when dry, the \Yhole mass 
is again turned, care- 
fully thinned ,^.nd 
smoothed. Over this 
coating is plastered a 
second layer of la- 
terite dust moisten- 
ed with water but 
without cow-dung — 
this coat is rough, 
and is not subse- 
quently smoothed 
down, (vide Fig. 
No. 5). The next 
stasje consists in bor- 
ing two openings in 
the composite niould, and in placing it in the fire, the effect of this 
being to melt the intermediate layer of wax, and thus to leave a va- 
cant space for the reception of the alloy. Into this space is pour- 
ed the alloy (consisting of copper 1 part and pewter 4). The ves- 
sel has now a dull leaden look ; it is hard, but easily cut. This 
model or shell is carefully turned and smoothed. Upon the smooth 
surface of this shell, the pattern is etched by hand, a small pointed 
graver (like the pattern of the chisel, but only sharper at the 
point) being used. This etching is done rapidly. The workman 
next takes a small chisel and hammer, and following the lines of the 
pattern, cuts it deeply and expeditiously, scooping out the tracings 
of the little leaves, kc, and leaving an indented but rough surface. 
This rough surface is next smoothed down by hammering gently 
No. 5. 
No. 4. 
