Beaten Shape Over at www.japanese-home-gardens.com

Metal Techniques.—Repousse is the technique of pushing, beating, or hammering quite malleable metals, such as copper, lead, and aluminum, into the form desired. Frequently the metal is beaten shape over into shape over, or into, a form which has been produced by carving or casting. This is a handicraft reproductive process akin to the manufacturing process of stamping with dies. Twentieth century artists generally employ the freer technique of beating the metal into shape without the use of prepared forms.

In the wild, skinks feed on insects, eggs of ground-nesting birds, newborn wood mice nesting in fallen, decayed trees. Give any available insects, meal worms, beaten shape over raw egg, newborn mice when available (see Part III); occasionally give bits of raw meat dipped in beaten shape over raw egg. Water—Essential; lightly sprinkle foliage and sides of cage daily; skinks lap water drops from foliage.

THIS INFLUENCES design considerably. Few plots are symmetrical, but that really does not matter. An L-shape or a triangle can even offer more design potential than a rectangle. Perhaps the most difficult shape of all is a square, particularly when it is too small to subdivide as in many yards in front. A design for an awkward shape needs to be carefully thought out. A long thin area, for example, can be divided into contrasting sections with barriers across its width, but by leaving a narrow view running through from one end to the other you create an additional sight line. Furthermore, by placing an ornamental feature like a statue or seat at the far end, you gain the full benefit from the site's length while the screens minimize the disadvantages of its shape.