These terms refer to different techniques the metal smith uses to manipulate metal. They are often used in conjunction with each other.
When you examine a beautifully ornamented piece of antique silver, it is sometimes hard to distinguish these techniques without knowing how they are done.
Engraving is done with tools that actually cut the metal away to form a design on the surface; such as a monogram.
Engine turning is an engraving process that uses a hand-controlled cutting machine (a mechanical lathe) to follow a master pattern or stencil. You see this work done on a lot of Victorian flat-ware pieces including popular fish sets. It became popular in the U.S. in the 1840's. The finished surface pattern often looks like a watered silk.
Chasing is done by variously shaped steel rods or punches being struck by a hammer to depress a design into the metal.
Repoussé (rep-oh-say) is a method of raising a design by working the metal from the reverse side.
A handy reference defining over 4000 terms relating to antiques is the "Tuttle Dictionary of Antiques & Collectibles Terms" by Don & Joan Bingham.

Thanks for the question,

Reni

Back To Top