proof of the pudding

Well, here it is - casting attempt number 1. It is meant to be a rectangular plaque with a poem about a wolf on it, but even the most broad and generous interpretation can't judge it a success on that count. There's no poem and it's not rectangular. On the plus side, there were no burns from squirting metal or superheated steam as I've read can happen and the furnace worked well. It was exhilarating going through the process of melting and pouring the brass, not knowing what the result was going to be and perhaps it wasn't a complete failure ... Look carefully at the burned imprint on the plaster mould. Do you see the ghostly outline of a dog or some kind of wolf?

If you have experience of casting metal and can give me any tips, I'd be happy to receive them!