Chasing

Definition

Chasing is a metalworking technique used to create designs in relief on a metal surface by hammering or pressing the metal from the reverse side. This process not only enhances the visual appeal of the metal but also allows for intricate designs that can reflect cultural narratives and artistic styles. In various art forms, such as in Egyptian and Syrian works, chasing can add depth and texture, showcasing craftsmanship and artistry.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Chasing can be traced back to ancient civilizations, including Egyptian and Syrian cultures, where it was used to enhance ceremonial objects and jewelry.
2. In Egyptian art, chasing was often used on items like funerary masks and jewelry to depict gods or significant motifs related to the afterlife.
3. Chasing requires a high level of skill as it involves precision in manipulating tools and understanding how metal responds to pressure.
4. In Syrian art, the technique is often seen in the production of detailed metalwork that showcases both geometric patterns and figural representations.
5. This technique is not just for aesthetic purposes; it also served functional roles by reinforcing metal objects or providing surfaces for engraving.

Review Questions

• How does the technique of chasing differ from repoussé, and what are the implications of these differences in the context of metalwork?
  • Chasing differs from repoussé primarily in the direction of the work; chasing involves hammering from the reverse side while repoussé is done from the front. This difference affects how designs are developed; chasing allows for more detailed relief work and a finer finish on the visible side. Both techniques complement each other and are often used together, showcasing an artist's skill and enhancing the overall design of metal objects.
• Discuss how chasing contributes to the cultural significance of Egyptian and Syrian art, particularly in ceremonial objects.
  • Chasing enhances cultural significance by allowing artists to embed narratives and symbols within their metalwork. In Egyptian culture, chased designs often depicted deities or scenes relevant to the afterlife, which were essential in ceremonial contexts. Similarly, Syrian artisans employed chasing to reflect their unique cultural motifs, making each piece not just decorative but deeply rooted in cultural storytelling and beliefs.
• Evaluate the importance of chasing in contemporary metalwork compared to its historical applications in ancient Egyptian and Syrian art.
  • In contemporary metalwork, chasing has evolved but retains its historical roots by emphasizing traditional craftsmanship while incorporating modern themes and materials. Unlike ancient applications where chasing was primarily for religious or ceremonial items, today it serves both functional and artistic purposes across various objects. This evolution reflects broader trends in art where historical techniques are reinterpreted to engage with modern aesthetics while preserving cultural heritage.

Related terms

Repoussé: A metalworking technique similar to chasing, where the artist hammers the metal from the front side to create a design in relief.

Inlay:

A decorative technique that involves embedding materials such as stone, glass, or metal into a base material to create a contrasting design.

Engraving:

The practice of incising a design onto a hard surface, traditionally done with a burin or similar tool, often used in conjunction with chasing in metalwork.