This online event will include an experimental bronze casting demonstration by Hayden Scott-Pratt a PhD candidate from Bournemouth University and accompanying talk by Dr Derek Pitman and takes part in the context of the Performing the Past research project. A National Heritage Lottery Funded project which aims to engage members of the public with local heritage through live experimental archaeology reconstructions for research, practice and education.
This live demonstration and Q&A aims to take the audience on a journey through ancient craft and metal production experimenting with methods of casting bronze metal which would leave little trace on the archaeological record. The bronze will be melted and cast into a clay-lined wood mould with the aim to produce a tanged bronze spearhead. The experiment will use authentic materials from a clay built hearth, leather bag bellows and a hand made crucible. Will the experiment work? will we lift a spearhead from the mould? or will everything burst into flames?!
We don’t know! but it will be an entertaining process to come and watch. So drop by at 03:00 pm on Wednesday the 15th for 40 minutes or so and come explore the past with us.
Visit the Hengistbury Head Visitor Centre on Facebook for more details.
