Bas-relief Modelling
Bas-relief work is another interesting department of clay-modelling. This is one-sided in its effect, and the full, rounded appearance of the statue or bust is reduced to a more flattened form with lower relief. A familiar example of bas-relief is the head on a silver dollar, or the raised ornament on silverware and pottery. Let us now begin with the group of pears and leaves illustrated in Fig. 11.
A small block or piece of wood is treated to a coat of shellac or paint; then the clay is puttied on to roughly form the parts in the group. With the modelling-tools the outline and form is gradually worked out; then the surfaces are smoothed down, and the few little artistic touches given here and there to lend life and character.
Bas-reliefs can, of course, be cast any size, and from the original plaster mould many duplicates in composition or papier-maché may be made.
Garlands, festoons, sunbursts, panel ornaments, and cartouches can be modelled in clay, and afterwards cast for architectural features in interior decoration. A good example of the garland is shown in Fig. 12. This is made up of flowers and ribbons, and with careful and patient work the boy sculptor should be able to obtain results quite as pleasing in detail as that illustrated.
Fig. 11. Fig. 12.
A Medallion Head
After some experience in casting ornaments in bas-relief has been obtained, it would be well to try a head or bust.