Not particularly inviting. Some might even say foreboding. But, this has been my only view of the cellar studio for nearly two weeks as I happily distracted myself with the many impressive diversions of Dresden tourism. Truth be told, I was beginning to get a little bit antsy about seeing what was waiting for me on the other side of the door and starting my work.
So imagine my delight/relief when upon the arrival of Patrice this was revealed. Not a medieval torture chamber, (though you could get a quick confession with many of these tools), but a cheerful and modern studio with all the conveniences of home. And better stocked than I could have wished for. Even to the point of making a good percentage of my tool packing labors somewhat redundant. But I do like to have my own well loved tools when working on a new project. I was very impressed. After getting a quick once over of the main aspects of the studio by Patrice, I was left to happily root around and set up my little corner.
The first thing that caught my attention was a lovely giant anvil topped off with a jaunty little tinkers' anvil. I can't tell you how close I came to spending a small fortune to acquire one from Canada to bring with me. That was the nearest vender. It's German made of course. Above this is a large collection of hammers (even including a few oddball ones made of horn and a long necked one for reaching deep inside a vessel).
Next was the giant stump with one of the largest leg vises (about 4 foot high) I've run across. They are mostly used by blacksmiths so a bit unexpected, but pleasant surprise. I was somewhat taken aback at the prospect of someone having to negotiate the log down the stairs of the studio. This was until I noticed that the log had been carefully bisected then reassembled with metal strapping. Still this must have been a major undertaking. On the shelves behind the vises are neatly arranged rows of stakes and mandrels used for forming, including two more extra tinkers' anvils. They must have a surplus around here. If one were prone to weeping.....
This was all very inspirational. My first project will be to begin to work with some of the pewter ingots I cast before I left Ohio. More on that later. Until then I'm just thrilled to be in such a great studio space.
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