Stainless steel

In metallurgy, stainless steel (inox) is defined{{ref|AISI}} as a ferrous alloy with a minimum of 10.5% chromium content. The name originates from the fact that stainless steel stains, or rusts, less easily than ordinary steel. Stainless steel has higher resistance to oxidation (rust) and corrosion in several environments.

Use in sculpture and building facades

Stainless steel was particularly in vogue during the art deco period. The most famous example of this is the upper portion of the Chrysler Building (illustrated at the beginning of this article). Many adaptations of this material were of less artistic merit, some being quite overdone. Owing to the durability of the material many of these buildings still retain their original and spectacular appearance.

Related Topics:
Art deco - Chrysler Building

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In recent years the forging of stainless steel has given rise to a fresh approach to architectural blacksmithing. The work of Giusseppe Lund illustrates this well.

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