Galvanoplasty

Galvanoplasty is a German technique, developed by Moritz Hermann von Jacobi in 1837, that involves using electric currents to deposit metal onto a mold, forming intricate and precise replicas. Known also as electroforming, this method revolutionized the creation of metal objects, allowing for the production of detailed sculptures, coins, and medals with exceptional accuracy.

The significance of galvanoplasty lies in its ability to reproduce fine details and sharp edges, making it a preferred technique for artists and mints alike. Austrian, French, and English artists quickly embraced it, using it to transform wax, clay, or plaster models into durable metal artworks. The French, in particular, excelled in creating finely detailed bas-reliefs and medals, with artists like Jules Clément Chaplain and Louis Oscar Roty achieving notable success​​.

Many galvanoplastic artworks are displayed in prestigious institutions. For example, the Victoria and Albert Museum houses electroformed pieces that showcase the precision and beauty of this technique. Its utility extends beyond art, with significant applications in printing and manufacturing due to its cost-effectiveness and ability to capture minute details​.

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