Cameo Cutting

Chapter 2: INTRODUCTION.

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About This Book

This practical handbook explains the history and recent rise of shell cameo work, surveys suitable shell varieties and their colour layers, and gives step-by-step instruction for preparing, drawing, and cutting designs. It describes essential tools, the use of a holdfast, polishing and sharpening techniques, mounting methods, and cost considerations for materials and appliances. The text also addresses practice tips, lesson formats including correspondence guidance, market prospects, suggested designs, and illustrated examples to assist amateurs and more experienced artists in producing finished cameo pieces.

INTRODUCTION.

The art of cutting Cameos in shell is of so very recent birth, compared with that of working in precious stones, that a claim to consideration in setting forth the method and practice may justly be preferred. Yet my little treatise, which is based upon practical experience, has been found, even in more limited form, a sufficient guide for the practice of the art, by a large number of amateurs in England, Wales, and Switzerland, to produce good work; these were all of them skilled in the use of the brush, the pencil, or the chisel. To all similarly proficient in any department of art, Cameo-cutting will be found a pleasant and interesting employment.