CASTINGS

When the finished three-dimensional drawings were done they were sent to the sculptor and the casting works - mostly situated in England. During this time the whole operation was out of Barks' hands. This page shows you a little bit of the whole process, and you will be able to understand just how much work goes into a figurine. You are following the cast making of the prototype for the porcelain figurine called Always Another Rainbow (with the exception of the first photo which was taken from a later session).

1 The sculptor begins modelling a first rough figure in plasteline. After completion it is dissected and the parts used to create master molds.	2 Part of the frame is removed from the mold showing three completed sections and the space where the fourth will be poured.	3 The final sections of 3 of the molds are cast in liquid Plaster of Paris.
4 A completed mold is taken apart and checked for imperfections.	5 Liquid clay is poured into each mold through a small hole in the top.	6 The thickness of the cast is checked. Then the excess clay is removed.
7 Before the figurine is assembled, all the casting seams are removed.	8 All blurred details are meticulously sharpened by hand.	9 Scrooge's head is gently positioned on his body.
10 Then it is secured with clay slip.	11 Excess slip is removed and the figurine receives a final touch-up.	12 Fully propped, the figurine enters the kiln.
13 Two figurines - after and before the kiln process.	14 Bisques are polished with repeated blasts of tiny glass beads.	15 A painter carefully applies colour to the figurine.
16 Now Barks receives the prototype and he makes a few corrections.	17 Adding a pale blue in the eye rim to avoid a staring effect.	18 Finally, the prototype for the figurine is ready!