French term for indirect carving: transferring a previously resolved three-dimensional model into stone or wood through pointing or another measuring system.
Taille indirecte is the French term for indirect carving. It refers to carving in which a previously resolved three-dimensional model is transferred into the final stone or wood by pointing, measurement, enlargement, reduction, or a related copying method.
The term describes the method of transfer, not the identity of the person doing the carving. The sculptor may execute the work personally or work with assistants or specialist carvers.
Etymology
French taille, 'cutting' or 'carving,' + indirecte, feminine form of 'indirect.'
Sculptor Notes
Taille indirecte forms a useful technical counterpart to taille directe. In the indirect method, the principal form is established before the final block is carved.