• Journal of Conservation Science
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• v.36 no.2
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• pp.123-142
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• 2020

We attempted an experimental study of lost-wax casting to reconstruct the Gilt-bronze pensive Bodhisattva; The main object we aimed to reconstruct was the Korean national treasure No.83, Gilt-bronze pensive Bodhisattva(Maitreya); thus, we scientifically analyzed and measured the alloy ratio and casting method. Initially, the alloy ratio we used during the preliminary experiment was Cu:Sn:Pb = 95.5:4.0:0.5; we then increased tin and lead by 2.5% to consider vaporization during the main experiment. After applying lost-wax casting, we realized that 30% rosin contributed to proper hardness after the wax hardness experiment. The microstructure revealed normal casting character(α-Cu, δ), and the results of the chemical analysis are identical to those of previous studies. The analysis of the mold suggests the presence of quartz powder for structural stability and fire-resistance along with other organic materials whose contribution is still unknown. We expect that our research will serve to provide basic data for advanced studies in the future.