Annual – Ancient Techniques & Tools

The annual course “Ancient Techniques & Tools” focuses on the in-depth comprehension of the ancient jewelry craftsman through the techniques, the tools and the procedures he used to create his pieces, so that we can then apply this knowledge in the present and come up with contemporary works inspired by ancient jewelry making. It is based on the studies, experiences, practices and experimentations realized by Akis Goumas throughout the years, in collaboration with the scientific team of archaeologists and museums (National Archaeological Museum, Benaki Museum, Museum of Cycladic Art, Canellopoulos Museum).

The sessions will be grouped in three (+ one) consecutive and complementary cycles. The participants are required to have technical knowledge and skills, preciseness in the process of making and the ability to combine components.

Each cycle will be completed with the creation of jewelry by implementing the respective technique:

 A’ CYCLE: OPENWORK METALS

In the first cycle, we will create nettings on thin and thick metals by cutting with the fretsaw vertically and at an angle. This technique demands preciseness as the strips formed after the fretting – by removing the parts cut and giving shape to the nettings – are particularly fine. In the end, we will also apply colours and enamels.

B’ CYCLE: ENCASED METALS

In this cycle, we will inlay metals, by cutting shapes that will fit into each other with great precision. The metals will be applied by hammering and not soldering. The metals that will serve as the base will be thin and hard, such as iron and titanium, while the inlays will be softer and thicker metals, such as copper and pure silver.

C’ CYCLE: ENNAILED METALS

This is another ancient technique that involves the “inlay” of fine metal sheets without using soldering, heating or glue. We will create our own steel tools in order to indent the metal and then apply extremely fine sheets of pure silver or pewter.

+1 CYCLE: INLAID METALS

If time allows, the course will be completed with a technical procedure of combining surfaces in the three dimensions. The surfaces will have emerged from our experimentations throughout the year and, thus, we will attempt to combine them in space by applying various techniques and methods.

Instructor: Akis Goumas

The duration of the course is 108,5 hours | October, 12 2026 – June, 28 2027

Day & Time: Monday 17:30-21:00

Number of participants from 6 to 8 individuals
Participation Fee 108,5 hours : 1300€ + VAT 24%