Vanity 53-25: The Sunken Treasure at the Heart of the Abyss
With "Vanity 53-25," I wanted to explore the theme of the passage of time from an aquatic and mysterious perspective. This sculpture is not just a skull; it is a suspended relic, a forgotten artifact at the bottom of the ocean. Surrounded by bronze filaments that evoke swaying seaweed or underwater currents, this steel lace skull seems to float in liquid eternity, like a hidden treasure patiently waiting to be discovered.
The drip fusion technique creates this illusion of lightness typical of the aquatic environment. The steel outlines the bone structure with a diaphanous transparency, while the bronze embraces the form with its golden vines, symbolizing nature reclaiming its rights over humanity. It is a piece from the Intimate range that invites daydreaming and exploration, transforming a "memento mori" into a nugget of imaginary archaeology.
Steel base diameter 3.15 in Height 8.66 in - Width 4.72 in - Depth 3.15 in
FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
Why this "underwater" setting for a vanity? Water symbolizes the flowing of time and oblivion. By placing this skull among metal "seaweed," I transform death into a scene of organic and poetic life. It’s the idea of the sunken treasure: beauty that persists even in the darkest depths.
How are the filaments surrounding the skull made? They are lines of fused bronze, worked at high temperature to achieve this fluidity. They are not visually rigid; they seem to undulate around the steel lace, creating a unique dynamic and suspended movement.
Does the sculpture actually hang suspended? The work is designed to give this visual impression of floating. Thanks to the lightness of the metal lace and the arrangement of the bronze filaments, the mass seems to fade in favor of emptiness, as if the sculpture were carried by an invisible current.
Is this a unique piece? Yes, absolutely. The manual dripping process makes each bronze interlacing and each steel mesh completely unpredictable. Vanity 53-25 is an original piece signed by Philippe Buil, impossible to duplicate identically.
How do you care for this piece with complex details? Despite the fineness of the filaments, the sculpture is robust thanks to the fusion of metals. A professional varnish protects it from oxidation. A simple dusting with a soft brush keeps the shine of the bronze "seaweed" and the clarity of the steel.
