Silverpoints

Silverpoint is a Renaissance-era drawing medium that pre-dates the pencil. It was used extensively in the 15th century, though some of the earliest silverpoints date to the 12th century. In this technique, the artist draws with a silver stylus across a specially coated surface that is slightly abrasive. The fine lines that are left may initially look gray, like pencil, but are actually silver deposits, which over time will tarnish to a warm metallic brown. Tones are built up gradually with layering or cross-hatching of lines, and much patience. (The term Metalpoint refers to any metals that are used in drawing – gold, silver, copper, or platinum.) Traditional preparation for silverpoint was a laborious process involving formulas that were mixtures of calcified bone, white lead, and hide glue applied in many coats to parchment or paper. Today, there are more convenient materials available. I prepare my formulas with a variety of color tints, and then add highlights of white ink or white charcoal to the finished drawing. For more about Silverpoint, please go to www.silverpointweb.com.

Various gauges of silver wire are set in wooden dowels, which are weighted with decorative tips.

This is my customized Silverpoint Box, which doubles as an easel.