First analytical results presented to the Historical Metallurgy Society

On the 22^nd of November, Julia Montes-Landa presented the first analytical results from the Baskerville punches at the Historical Metallurgy Society Research in Progress Meeting. There, she shared with colleagues the initial results of the analyses carried out to study the composition of the punches and the tool marks still visible on their surfaces. These analyses combined portable X-ray fluorescence (pXRF) and varied optical and digital microscopes to reverse-engineer the craft of punch-making.

With these non-destructive techniques we have been able to isolate different compositional groups related to different types of iron, as well as standardised bar sizes used in the manufacture of the punches. Moreover, based on the shape of the punches when observed in section, we identified different forging strategies that sought to create the appropriate size of iron bar to the size of the letter to be cut. We are also documenting characteristic tool marks that reveal the use and combination of filing and engraving as the key techniques to shape the face of the punches. These techniques were skillfully selected depending on the size and shape of the letter to be cut. As an example, on the picture on the left it is possible to see vertical and horizontal filing lines indicative of the use of this technique for the manufacture of this particular punch. All of these data are serving to bring to light unique perspectives on how the Baskerville workshop organised and undertook the production of punches.