CHANGING IRON TO STEEL

Lithograph by an unattributed artist. Published for schoolroom use, circa 1960.

Image size: 19 x 14 3/4 ins. Framed size: 24 x 19 3/4 ins approx.

Generally very good condition throughout. Mounted in acid-free cream board; framed in 3/8 ins. charcoal black cushion frame.

The scene shows a foundry with a Bessemer converter belching flame in the background, a twentieth century take on De Loutherbourg's 'Coalbrookdale by Night' of 1801. The Bessemer process was the first inexpensive industrial process for the mass-production of steel from molten pig iron prior to the open-hearth furnace. The key principle is removal of impurities from the iron by oxidation with air being blown through the molten iron. The oxidation also raises the temperature of the iron mass and keeps it molten. Source: Wikipedia.

£125.00 - mounted and framed. This item is not suitable for postage.