Lotus Flower Ring Sculpture – Gilded Brass and Striped Flint
From Hand-Formed Brass Petals to 23-Carat Gilding
The Lotus Flower Ring Sculpture was conceived as a sculptural object combining hand-formed brass, 23-carat gilding and natural striped flint. Developed within Kostylo Atelier, the composition draws upon the symbolic associations of the lotus while exploring its form through traditional goldsmithing techniques.
The construction required the individual shaping and assembly of multiple brass petals into a layered, three-dimensional flower. Silver soldering was used to join the elements, establishing the structural continuity of the sculpture while preserving the proportions and movement of its form.
The process began with the design and preparation of the circular brass base. Individual lotus petals were then cut by hand from brass sheet, with their dimensions and proportions established in relation to the overall composition.
The cut brass petals were heated and shaped individually by hand to develop their curvature and spatial character. Following forming, their edges and surfaces were refined with files and abrasives, preparing the elements for assembly.
The central flower base was developed through a similar process of heating and manual forming. Eight brass petals were shaped as part of the supporting structure, while the central section was prepared to accommodate the striped flint element. The assembled base underwent further hand-filing to refine its contours and soldered connections.
The first row of individually shaped petals was positioned around the central base and joined through silver soldering. Their placement established the initial geometry and rhythm of the layered lotus composition.
Further rows of petals were added progressively through silver soldering. Their orientation and spacing were adjusted to develop the flower’s depth, balance and characteristic layered structure.
Once the petal assembly was complete, the brass surfaces underwent extensive manual refinement. Excess silver solder was removed, and the joints, edges and transitions between petals were carefully worked with files and abrasives.
The previously prepared rear components of the ring were then fitted and silver-soldered to the sculptural flower assembly. Further grinding and adjustment followed to integrate the structural elements with the completed lotus form.
Following mechanical refinement, the sculpture was prepared for copper plating. The copper layer provided a basis for further surface correction and polishing, allowing small imperfections to be addressed before the application of 23-carat gilding.
In parallel with the metalwork, the striped flint element and its setting were prepared and fitted to the central opening of the flower. The stone was shaped and polished to reveal its natural bands and contrasting patterns, establishing a visual relationship with the gilded brass petals.
The completed Lotus Flower Ring Sculpture brings together the layered structure of hand-formed brass petals, the reflective surface of 23-carat gilding and the distinctive pattern of polished striped flint.
Its final form reflects the relationship between sculptural judgement, traditional metalworking techniques and the individual character of the materials.
