Casting Techniques

 

 

 

Taotie pattern block used to imprint decoration to bronze vessels during casting. This was a more efficient way to decorate than hand carving each mold. Pattern was excavated at the Houma Foundry in Shanxi Province (from circa 453 BC). 

 

Pieces from clay mold for casting coins during the Han dynasty (circa 206 BC to 220 AD).

 

         

Vents pierced in the bottom of a vessel to let hot gasses escape.

Clay mold for casting a bell.

Bottom of bronze tripod ding vessel showing criss cross pattern used to vent hot gasses during casting process.

 

 

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