Gigi Mariani
Pepite #2, 2019
Silver, 18kt yellow gold, niello, patina, ring
5.2 cm diameter
unique and signed
sold
Gigi Mariani works with antique, almost forgotten techniques. Using niello, a blackener with the aid of sulfur, he conceals the preciousness of the noble metal. Under the application of heat, “blood clots” and cracks appear in the surfaces — making them appear marked by age. Mariani counteracts his instinctive approach of using the metal surface as a canvas through his precise, geometric forms, with Pepite #2 now resembling stars in the sky. In addition to precious metals, the basic materials of Gigi Mariani’s jewellery include iron, copper and brass. His creations’ unique aesthetic appeal is due to the fact that these sculptural and often cuboid pieces have been crafted by a goldsmith who also works as a visual artist.
