"This book is about how metalsmiths and jewelers can take advantage of the intrinsic characteristics of metal, understood since antiquity, and employ a mechanical device known for nearly 200 years to make objects by hand. Die forming, as described here, does not restrict or replace hand work. In fact, the die-forming process requires additional skill and knowledge in the making of dies, and in controlling their use in the press. Die forming extends the possibilities of what one can make and opens new avenues of exploration. It is a continuation of the tradition of innovation in craft." --introduction.

Two accomplished metalsmiths, both with extensive teaching careers, have joined forces to provide a comprehensive survey of the ways to form sheet metal. The 256-page text covers a huge swath, from a basic dapped disk through synclasting, anticlasting and spiculums to a raised vessel. Along the way, special attention is given to anticlastic forming and the vocabulary first introduced by their mentor, Heikki Seppä. Creative Metal Forming includes 35 detailed exercises to explain the basics and as well as advanced nuances of each category. Metalsmiths Michael Good and Nancy Linkin have each contributed demonstrations of their forming techniques.

This book offers a comprehensive overview of the pre-modern economic history of Central Asia and the Silk Road, covering several millennia. By analyzing an abundance of sources and materials, it illustrates the repeated economic heydays of the Silk Road, during which it linked the Orient and Occident for many centuries. Nomadic steppe empires frequently dominated Central Asia, molded its economy and influenced trade along the Silk Road. The book assesses the causes and effects of the wide-ranging overland trade booms, while also discussing various internal and external factors that led to the gradual economic decline of Central Asia and eventual demise of the Silk Road. Lastly, it explains how the economic decline gave rise to Chinese and Russian colonialism in the 18th and 19th centuries. Detailed information, e.g. on the Silk Road’s trajectories in various epochs, is offered in the form of numerous newly drafted maps.

Describes a physical approach to metalsmithing that is informed by the natural characteristics of metal, with practical techniques and over 450 photographs.

Based on the 28th International Archaeometry Symposium jointly sponsored by the University of California, Los Angeles, and the Getty Conservation Institute, this volume offers a rare opportunity to survey under a single cover a wide range of investigations concerning pre-Columbian materials. Twenty chapters detail research in five principal areas: anthropology and materials science; ceramics; stone and obsidian; metals; and archaeological sites and dating. Contributions include Heather Lechtman's investigation of “The Materials Science of Material Culture,” Ron L. Bishop on the compositional analysis of pre-Columbian pottery from the Maya region, Ellen Howe on the use of silver and lead from the Mantaro Valley in Peru, and J. Michael Elam and others on source identification and hydration dating of obsidian artifacts.

An introduction to the work and ideas of artists who use—and even influence—science and technology. A new breed of contemporary artist engages science and technology—not just to adopt the vocabulary and gizmos, but to explore and comment on the content, agendas, and possibilities. Indeed, proposes Stephen Wilson, the role of the artist is not only to interpret and to spread scientific knowledge, but to be an active partner in determining the direction of research. Years ago, C. P. Snow wrote about the "two cultures" of science and the humanities; these developments may finally help to change the outlook of those who view science and technology as separate from the general culture. In this rich compendium, Wilson offers the first comprehensive survey of international artists who incorporate concepts and research from mathematics, the physical sciences, biology, kinetics, telecommunications, and experimental digital systems such as artificial intelligence and ubiquitous computing. In addition to visual documentation and statements by the artists, Wilson examines relevant art-theoretical writings and explores emerging scientific and technological research likely to be culturally significant in the future. He also provides lists of resources including organizations, publications, conferences, museums, research centers, and Web sites.