Happy New Year everyone! I hope you're all well and you had a great festive period. Over the holidays, I finally had the uninterrupted time needed to complete a small set of embossed metal plaques that I had been developing slowly (whenever I found the time!) in parallel with my studio work.
The finished pieces - one in brass, one in copper, and one in bronze - share the same form, but each material brings its own character. Each plaque is made from quite thick (3mm) solid metal and features raised lettering and border against a darkened background. The background is darkened by forming a dark patina that actually changes the colour of the top layer of metal, as opposed to applying a layer of paint or enamel over the top. As such, they are very durable.
I decided to leave all 3 plaques unlacquered, so they're free to age and develop a further natural patina over time. The patina is formed by the copper / brass / bronze oxidising, in a similar way to how e.g. iron "rusts". However, there is a difference, in that these metals form a layer that protects the metal and prevents further oxidising, as opposed to iron where the metal will continue to corrode away over time.
Time to put up these plaques in their new home, on my metal storage shelves!
Thanks for looking, and please don't hesitate to get in touch if you're interested in learning more about the things I make in bronze, copper and brass, or if you would like me to make something for you.