A chasing chisel, known in Dutch as a ceseel, is a narrow hand tool made of hardened steel that is used to create decorative patterns, reliefs, and fine details in metal or stone. The tool is driven across the workpiece with a hammer, displacing the material rather than cutting it away.
Technique and function
Chasing is one of the oldest metalworking techniques. The chisel is placed tip-down on the workpiece and moved forward with light, controlled hammer blows. Unlike conventional chiselling, which removes material in chips, chasing pushes the material into shape. This makes it possible to produce extremely fine lines, contours, and low-relief decoration.
Several types of chasing chisels exist. Liner chasers have a sharp point for drawing lines and outlines. Flat chasers have a broader, flat head and are used to smooth backgrounds or create textures. Modelling chasers have a rounded tip for shaping curved surfaces.
The tools are traditionally made from hardened tool steel. The shape of the tip determines the profile of the impression left in the material. A skilled chaser may own dozens of chisels, each with a different tip profile suited to a particular task.
Application
In construction and architecture, chasing chisels are used to decorate metal building components such as copper roofing, lead flashing, wrought-iron railings, and ornamental hardware. Historically, chasing was an essential technique in the production of capitals, ornaments, and facade decorations in metal.
In the restoration of historic and listed buildings, chasing chisels remain in active use. Damaged ornaments are repaired using the same traditional methods. A similar tool is also used in stonemasonry for adding fine details to natural stone.
Related terms
- Chasing (metalwork)
- Repousse
- Cold chisel
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