Form for casting a cannon

2008

As evidenced by numerous drawings and notes, Leonardo knew well the whole process for the production of modular artillery. This model replicates the form for casting a cannon, obtained through a series of passages clearly illustrated in Leonardo’s drawings: the core of the form, consisting of a wooden rod, is mounted on two stands and wound with rope.

Upon this are applied various layers of clay, until achieving the desired shape and size for the cannon. The model is then lubricated and sprinkled with ashes, before applying layers of clay for construction of the counter-form, or the negative, which is then dried and reinforced with steel bars. Lastly, the reinforcement is covered with a layer of clay, and a further binding is applied in alternate manner with the preceding.