Repoussé

Repoussé is a decorative metalworking technique in which sheet metal is shaped from the reverse to create raised designs on the front surface.

Jewellers and metalworkers can use the technique to produce floral motifs, scrolls, figures and other three-dimensional decoration. The design is carefully worked with specialised tools to gradually raise and shape the metal without cutting through it.

Repoussé was used across many periods of jewellery history and can be found in gold, silver and other metals. It is particularly valued for the depth and sculptural quality it gives to relatively thin sheets of metal.

Repoussé is sometimes used alongside chasing, a related technique in which the front surface of the metal is worked to refine and define the design.

Technique: Decorative metalworking
Typical materials: Gold and silver
Characteristic feature: Raised decoration formed by working the reverse of the metal