Question

When a metalwork artist works the front side of a sheet of metal with a hammer to imprint a texture from below it is called ________?

Answer 1

When a metalwork artist works the front side of a sheet of metal with a hammer to imprint a texture from below it is called embossing. Embossing is a technique used for metal finishing on buildings as well as in Fine Art and Design, using copper, aluminium, steel and brass, as well as other metals in different configurations where pressure, heat and/or force can be applied to the metal to take the embossed relief form of the underlying design.

Answer 2

I believe the answer is: Chasing

The purpose of chasing during a metalwork is to redefine the surface of the metal and bring them to the height which intended by the artist to make the relief. This type of technique was really popular among European artworks in the 18th century.