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Finish

The final character of a sculptural surface produced by tools, abrasives, polishing, patination, or deliberate retention of working marks.

Short Definition

The final character of a sculptural surface produced by tools, abrasives, polishing, patination, or deliberate retention of working marks.

Difficulty

intermediate

Language Origin

English

Finish describes the final treatment and visual character of a sculpture’s surface. In stone it may range from point or tooth-chisel texture through rubbed, honed, and polished surfaces; in bronze it includes chasing and patination. Finish is an artistic decision as well as a technical stage.

Etymology

English, from Old French finir, 'to complete.'