History of Technology in India, Vol. I: From Antiquity to c. 1200 A.D. v1.c36.s1.2

v1.c36.s1.2

The usual process (Pandey, 1952, Pt.1, p. 76) of inscribing or engraving a stone consists of chiselling and polishing it by rubbing it with another stone having a smooth surface. Parallel lines were then drawn upon the surface of the polished stone by means of a piece of chalk. The writings were attempted within the parallel lines by a calligrapher with ink, chalk or dye; finally, the engraver engraved the letter. Any damage in the course of engraving was immediately filled up with some plastic materials.