Preheat oven to 400℉.
In a bowl, sift together 4 cups flour and ½ teaspoon baking powder.
Using your fingertips quickly blend 1 cup of vegetable shortening until mixture is the size of marbles.
Add 1¾ cups buttermilk until combined.
Transfer the dough to a non-stick surface. Note: It will be sticky.
Lightly sprinkle flour over top of the biscuits and flour hands.
Using the tips of your fingers lift and fold dough 4 times.
Flour a rolling pin. Using light strokes roll dough until approximately 1 inch thick.
Using a biscuit cutter - cut biscuits and place on a baking sheet with edges nearly touching.
Brush the tops of biscuits with ¼ cup melted butter.
Bake 10 to 12 minutes or until biscuits are a light golden brown.