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Tracing the 45″ swordfish pattern onto the sheet copper.

Each part is hand cut from 100% copper sheet.

Sharp details are hammered into the copper sheet by the “chasing” method.

The areas between the chased lines are stretched out using the “repoussé” method.

Roughing out the body then shaping and smoothing it to the correct form.

The fins require more detail and texturing.

The body and fins are soldered together to complete the forms.

The assembled swordfish has been cleaned and primed for the gold leaf.

A special oil varnish glue is applied to the tinted zinc primer. When it is 97% dry, 3″ square leaves of 23 karat gold are placed on the surface of the figure then brushed to cover every square millimeter and lightly press it into the varnish. The leaf is then burnished to a solid finish and shine. Dave Ferro handles all gold leaf finishes himself. 

The completed 45″ Gilt Swordfish Weathervane.