This is more of a look than a finish (apologies if this is in the wrong section, feel free to correct me)

I have no idea how to create this look. I am very interested in both the texture (distressed? antiqued?) and the rough worn blackish look.

In the picture below I am asking about the large flat square piece on the door, not the handles.

I spent several hours scouring youtube and various forums and still have no idea how to make this distressed/aged 3D look. Amazing work there, some of the best I have seen. My 'thing' is architectural blacksmithing)

Many thanks to anyone who can offer any insight into how this is done 

 

The first thought that pops in my head is just don't brush off the scale until the forging is complete.  That can certainly create a rough texture on the piece.

Also; save back heavily rusted/pitted/worn scrap for such uses.

It looks like an "as forged" finish that they weren't particularly interested in trying to get very smooth and maybe even put a few random dings in it with a ball pien hammer as it cooled instead of trying to smooth it out. A dip in chlorine bleach or swimming peroxide will make it quickly rust.  

Pnut

 

Deep scaling can cause a similar texture

Thanks to everyone for chiming in. I will practice on a piece of scrap and see what I can come up with. 

Collect scale from around your anvil and put handfuls on the hot work as you hammer.

Steve

Ok that is a cool idea I will definitely try this, thanks!

I have seen that texture in my own work after not brushing off scale during forging from the anvil or the part. Pickel in vinigar when done but be lazy and forget it in there for a week it will increase the pitting. 

 

Then finish after a wash and base neutralize with bakingsoda

 

susan