Texes Art EC-12 Practice Exam

What metalworking technique creates a relief by hammering a metal plate from the back?

1. Granulation

2. Repousse

3. Stamping

4. Sculpting

The correct answer is: Repousse

The technique that creates a relief by hammering a metal plate from the back is called repousse. This method involves shaping the metal into a raised design by striking the back of the plate with hammers or tools, allowing the artist to create a three-dimensional effect. The process allows for intricate patterns and textures to be formed on the surface of the metal, showcasing both depth and detail. Granulation refers to the technique of decorating metal surfaces with tiny granules or beads of metal, not involving the hammering of the back. Stamping usually involves pressing a die against metal to create an impression, which differs from the manual shaping inherent in repousse. Sculpting involves creating three-dimensional forms from solid materials, which is unrelated to the specific action of raising designs on a metal surface. Thus, repousse stands out as the correct choice due to its unique technique and focus on relief creation through back hammering.