Inlay, koftgari, repousse, chasing and neillo

[Yannis]

Originally Posted by Yannis

I am not sure that it is made with this technique. In places that niello is worn, there is no engraving under. I think they made it direct on silver.

I have to change this statement. I checked recently some more old niello and indeed in some cases it is applied into engraving as Jens says.

Originally Posted by Jens Nordlunde

and the alloy is rubbed into the engraved pattern on silver or gold, and then fired. When the object has cooled, and has been polished the surface is shining blank and the Niello black.

Now I believe that niello is applied both methods: Direct on silver or into engraved pattern. Common sense says that second method gives more endurance.

[Battara]

Thank you Marc. I was not aware of this.

Yannis, both are correct. Niello must be applied directly onto silver, but only in the recessed areas of the silver. Recessed areas are done by use of chasing, engraving, planishing, stamping, etc. Thus it will have more endurance over time as you suggest. As I mentioned, only the raised areas (those that stand out) will not be niello but exposed silver.

[Battara]

duplicate