Like an unopened geode in the wild, this battered little toolbox, when closed, gives no hint of the beauty inside! A small stamped aluminum figure of the Holy family rests on a velvet ribbon on top of Italian paper. A column of purple (they appear blue in photos) and light blue colored roses and pearl beads adds beauty to the scene. Opposite is a gold-tone cross pendant with green heart resting on an antique Italian paper background accompanied by sea glass and sea urchin spine decorations. This piece fits easily in the palm of your hand and is very transportable.
Vintage metal toolbox, pressed metal image on velvet ribbon, Italian paper, Italian ephemera vignette with gold cross/green heart pendant, purple and light blue silk flowers, faux pearl bead necklace, Hawaiian sea urchin spines, sea glass, antique book spine fragment.
Artist statement: During the 1940s resurgence of the retablo art form in Peru, “a distinction emerged between the retablo for ritual and religious purposes and the retablo as decoration.” (Wikipedia). My works are a celebration of the retablo as art form, and are not deals necessarily tied to any religion or religious figure.
I create pieces that are more than just an assemblage of disparate parts – they tell, or suggest, a cohesive story. The whimsical titles allow the observer to further imagine that story.
To achieve an aged look in my retablos, one of the most important elements is the metal toolbox or wooden box container. Most of the elements inside are imperfect found objects, recycled and repurposed to give them new life. The title/signature labels are an integral part of the artwork and are usually prominently displayed.
These artworks are completely unique, one of a kind, and original cbphoenix Toolbox Retablos™. They are designed to stand open on a flat surface, and are also transportable. I strive for the highest quality of craftsmanship so the work will last for a lifetime and longer.
Product code: Sacra Famiglia deals of the Seven Purple Roses -- Toolbox Retablo Assemblage