Challenges in Creating an Authentic Plaster Bust – Insights from the Video Documentation
Molding Ears and Hair:
Within the video, intriguing facets emerge, highlighting the challenges encountered during the molding process. Notably, the careful approach to molding ears, akin to Mr. Lawson's documented techniques in 1949, underscores the intricacies faced by the team. In molding the man's ears Mr. Lawson opted to use dental wax which whilst not providing a perfect solution, was considered to be a good compromise.
Hair Entanglement
A critical aspect addressed in the video was that of the prevention of hair entanglement
with the alginate mold. The team confronted this issue by employing innovative
solutions. For the eyebrows, petroleum jelly was used to prevent entanglement, while a distinctive method involving a form of 'cling wrap' was applied to secure the hair on the head, ensuring a seamless bald appearance. The significance of averting hair entanglement is emphasized, as clumps of hair could potentially compromise the integrity of the plaster cast.
Comparisons with Mr. Lawson's Techniques:
Drawing parallels with Mr. Lawson's expertise, it is crucial to recognize his experience and background as a taxidermist at the South Australian Museum. The video illuminates that hair entanglement was a common challenge, aligning with the standard practices outlined by Mr. Lawson in 1949. His use of mortuary soap to smother the man's hair, especially on the head and eyebrows, indicates a seasoned understanding of mitigating potential issues during the mold-breaking away process. Mr. Lawson's extensive experience in creating numerous casts, including the iconic Somerton Man, underscores his proficiency in navigating these challenges.
Mortuary Soap Application and DNA Implications:
The use of mortuary soap, containing sodium hypochlorite by Mr. Lawson, is a noteworthy detail. Beyond its role in facilitating mold release, the substance's DNA-destroying properties align with contemporary DNA lab practices. The application of ample mortuary soap to preserve the integrity of the man's hair, while inadvertently serving as a DNA deterrent, showcases Mr. Lawson's ability to maintain accuracy in reproducing the Somerton Man's distinct features.
Unique Considerations:
A noteworthy distinction arises in the video project's requirement for a bald appearance, diverging from the Somerton Man's distinctive head of hair. Mr. Lawson's application of mortuary soap tailored to the nature and appearance of the man's hair underscores his commitment to capturing authenticity in the plaster reproduction of the man's head and shoulders.
Conclusion
The video not only reveals the technical nuances of plaster bust creation but also prompts a reflection on the skill, craftsmanship, and foresight exercised by Mr. Lawson in his iconic work on the Somerton Man. It should be noted that in the process applied by Mr.Lawson the likelihood of hair from the man's head becoming entangled with the cast and thus later retrievable, was minimised therefore casting doubt on the origin of the hair samples produced by Professor Abbott. It is known that human hair was used in the mold-making process in the relevant period when the Somerton Mn bust was made.