The rubbing of
brass memorials has long held a fascination for historically minded people and
lately the decorative possibilities of these art works has increased their
popularity.
Monuments fashioned out of brass were set into walls and floors of
European churches between the 13th and 17th centuries. Knights, ladies, and
priests are portrayed in stylized form, yet costumes are depicted with
extraordinary authenticity. The brasses provide a fascinating look at the
changes that occurred in clothing, armor, and religious beliefs.
Brass Rubbings are exact impressions taken of these monuments. Rubbings are created by covering the brass with a thin paper of high quality and rubbing with special waxes. Originally the engravers themselves took rubbings of their brasses to keep a record of their work.
Popular since Victorian times, brass rubbing is an enjoyable
pastime for art, history, and folklore enthusiasts. Few activities allow you to
get in touch with medieval heritage while rewarding you with decorative wall
hangings.
Rubbing Centers were set up in recent years to offset the forbiddance of the rubbing of the Church brasses. Facsimiles, accurate in every detail, spare the original monuments wear and tear.
Wachs Brass Rubbing Centre was established at Marlow-on-Thames in 1976 and is now located in Narragansett, RI where each rubbing is individually handcrafted, allowing for numerous variations in design. Figures may be grouped as couples or multiple images on one sheet and are available in a variety of colors.
