Around the straw-covered spindle the actual shape of the barrel was then sculpted using layers of a paste made from clay, horse dung (!) and water, each layer being thoroughly dried before application of the next. This resulted in a model very close to the required size and shape. After the final layer had been applied the profile of the piece was checked with a template called a strickle. Finally the model was covered with a layer of molten wax and again smoothed by the strickle. This was to give the model a smooth surface to prevent it adhering to the mould, and to assist its removal from the latter. This last application of the strickle was used to accurately delineate decorative bands on the piece, as well as to locate the position of the trunnions. Next the trunnions in the form of turned wooden blocks shaped at the ends to suit the profile of the barrel were attached by iron skewers driven into the spindle of the model. In order to allow for contraction of the bronze on cooling all model dimensions were made greater than those on the design drawing by 2½ inches in 100 (63.5 mm in 2540 mm).