Piece-Mold Casting
An ancient Chinese method of making bronze objects by pouring metal into a mold made of several pieces.
What is it?
Piece-mold casting is a technique used in ancient China to make bronze vessels. First, a model of the object is made from clay. Then, a mold is made in several pieces around the model. The pieces are removed and reassembled, and molten bronze is poured in. After cooling, the mold is broken to reveal the bronze object. The child's reflection mentions that the bronze vessel has fine carvings, which were made possible by this technique.
Why it matters
This technique allowed Chinese craftsmen to create complex shapes and detailed decorations. It was a major technological achievement of the Bronze Age.
Where you've seen it
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