Plate 27
Chapter VIII
ENRICHMENT OF THE CONTOURS OR OUTLINES OF DESIGNS IN BASE AND PRECIOUS METALS
Enrichment of the Base Metals—Iron, Copper, Brass, Bronze
The contours of clay forms are generally free to follow the curves and take the direction dictated by the knowledge and taste of the designer. Metal outlines are more restricted in this respect. Metal is frequently associated with service and consequently its design is often governed by its intended use. For example, if we were to design a metal drawer pull for a buffet, it would have to be considered in relation to the character and shape of the buffet. Again, the screws with which it is attached to the buffet would influence its outline design. It is, in other words, a dependent outline.
Free and Dependent Outlines
To distinguish between an unrestricted outline and one bound by other considerations we will term the restricted outline a dependent outline, for its enrichment must be related to other forms either within or without its surface. A free outline on the other hand is one in which the designer is free to use his ideas unrestricted by any other outside consideration, except service and design consistent with the material.