The aim of the Primitive Method project is the re-discovery of medieval and ancient metalworking techniques, and their subsequent use in a modern production context. This is based around the idea of the "creative micro-factory", where the artisan has a wide enough range of traditional skill and modern technology, and is able to compete with much larger organisations.
The medieval period was an interesting historical era, technologically. It predates the scientific era, but still has remarkably complex art and manufacturing - the Staffordshire Hoard is a fine demonstration of that. In the 20th century, many of these skills have died out, and while there remain a number of capable master artisans, the vitality is gone from industries that were thriving just 30 years ago.
A great deal of research has been done in British institutions and abroad, investigating the tools and techniques of the past, but very little of it filters into the world of the professional jeweller. The intention of the Primitive Method project is to make information available to everyone. As well as being useful to the established artisan, it is of particular benefit to the newcomer, as the archaic methods often require simple tools that are easy to make.
Having investigated many of the tools of the middle ages, the blog is currently detailing the production of bullion products like sheet and wire, as well as some basic techniques like cuttlebone casting and raising. Over the course of AA2A, the blog will detail my research into a wide range of techniques, including chasing, repoussé, inlaying, forging, setting, engraving, etching, casting, toolmaking and restoration, and lapidary work.
The aim of the Primitive Method project is the re-discovery of medieval and ancient metalworking techniques, and their subsequent use in a modern production context. This is based around the idea of the "creative micro-factory", where the artisan has a wide enough range of traditional skill and modern technology, and is able to compete with much larger organisations.
The medieval period was an interesting historical era, technologically. It predates the scientific era, but still has remarkably complex art and manufacturing - the Staffordshire Hoard is a fine demonstration of that. In the 20th century, many of these skills have died out, and while there remain a number of capable master artisans, the vitality is gone from industries that were thriving just 30 years ago.
A great deal of research has been done in British institutions and abroad, investigating the tools and techniques of the past, but very little of it filters into the world of the professional jeweller. The intention of the Primitive Method project is to make information available to everyone. As well as being useful to the established artisan, it is of particular benefit to the newcomer, as the archaic methods often require simple tools that are easy to make.
Having investigated many of the tools of the middle ages, the blog is currently detailing the production of bullion products like sheet and wire, as well as some basic techniques like cuttlebone casting and raising. Over the course of AA2A, the blog will detail my research into a wide range of techniques, including chasing, repoussé, inlaying, forging, setting, engraving, etching, casting, toolmaking and restoration, and lapidary work.
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