Late 20th Century Italian Mid Century Modern Style Pair of Brass Flamingos in Hollow

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Description

We kindly invite you to read the entire description, as we strive to provide detailed technical and historical information to … Read more We kindly invite you to read the entire description, as we strive to provide detailed technical and historical information to ensure the authenticity of our items. This stunning and captivating pair of decorative flamingos is crafted using hollow brass casting, a technique that combines durability and lightness while highlighting intricate design details. The sculptures feature a sleek and harmonious silhouette, characterized by fluid lines that evoke the natural movement of flamingos—symbols of grace and balance. These pieces were produced between 1970 and 1975 in a foundry workshop in Milan, a city that, at the time, was a prominent hub for contemporary art and design. In this context, specialized workshops cast metals to create sculptures and installations, often commissioned by artists and designers. The flamingos embody the decorative style of the era, influenced by modernist design and a preference for high-quality materials such as brass. Their glossy, golden finish reflects the sophisticated aesthetic of the period, making them ideal decor pieces for collectors or vintage enthusiasts. Hollow casting not only ensures durability but also allows for precise modeling and a smooth, polished surface. The intricate base, elegantly replicating the flamingos' legs against an abstract terrain, adds further character to the overall design. Hollow casting is a widely used method in the creation of decorative metal objects. This process yields strong yet lightweight pieces thanks to their hollow internal structure. It begins with the creation of a mold, typically made of sand or refractory plaster, that defines the object's shape. Brass, an alloy primarily composed of copper and zinc, is melted in a furnace at temperatures exceeding 900°C (1652°F). The molten metal is poured into the mold, filling the voids. To achieve a hollow structure, a core (usually made of sand) is inserted into the mold and removed after cooling. Once the mold is removed, the raw piece may exhibit surface imperfections, which are refined during subsequent finishing stages. The piece is cleaned, smoothed, and polished. Mirror polishing, a technique that gives the surface a brilliant, reflective finish, is achieved using abrasive discs and specific metal polishing compounds. This process eliminates microscopic imperfections, enhancing the metal's shine. Thanks to their high-quality craftsmanship, these flamingos are not just decorative art pieces but also a testament to the history of Italian design. Perfect for enhancing your living space or collection, they bring a touch of exclusivity and sophistication to any setting. Ideal for display on shelves, coffee tables, or consoles, they add elegance and style to any room. A curiosity: the word “flamingo” in English is derived from the Spanish word “flamenco,” which in turn originates from medieval Latin “flamingus,” related to “flamma,” meaning “flame.” This name refers to the characteristic bright pink or reddish color of flamingo feathers, which is reminiscent of the color of flames. The flamingos are in excellent condition, with a natural patina that highlights their authenticity and age. If desired, they can be polished to restore their original brilliance.
Dimensions Large flamingo: 46 cm (height), 26 cm (width), 18 cm (depth). Small flamingo: 38 cm (height), 23 cm (width), 18 cm (depth).
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