Pavarti The Power of Breath – Metal lace sculpture

Through this Parvati metal sculpture, I seek to give visible form to an energy that, by its very nature, cannot be seen.

A material that seems to breathe

When I created Pavarti – The Force of Breath, I wanted to explore the idea of an invisible energy that passes through matter and brings it to life. Metal, although dense and resistant, appears here as a material in transformation. It opens, fragments and unfolds, allowing space and light to circulate.

The openwork forms play an essential role in this exploration. I do not seek to enclose the body within a solid volume, but rather to create a sculpture in which emptiness becomes as important as the material. Light passes through the reliefs, reveals certain surfaces, makes others disappear and constantly changes the perception of the work.

Parvati, a presence between strength and fragility

Parvati’s inspiration allowed me to approach the female figure as a presence that is both deeply embodied and permeated by an inner force. In this work, the body is not merely an anatomical representation: it becomes the vehicle for an energy that seems to flow through it.

The small size of this sculpture fully reflects this intention. More intimate, it invites close observation of the textures, openings and movements of the material. I wanted to concentrate a living, vibrant presence within this format, where the apparent fragility of the metal contrasts with the power of the energy it seems to contain.

Sculpture specifications

Artwork title	Pavarti The Force of Breath
Collection	Small-Size Bodies
Artist	Philippe Buil
Type	Contemporary sculpture
Technique	Metal lace
Materials	Steel and bronze
Signature	Engraved on the base

Steel base diameter: 4 in
Height: 10 in - Width: 8 in - Depth: 5 in

Learn more about the sculpture “Pavarti – The Force of Breath”

What does the sculpture “Pavarti – The Force of Breath” represent?

Pavarti – The Force of Breath represents a female figure inspired by Parvati, a major deity in the Hindu tradition. The work explores the relationship between the body, energy and creative force.

Why is this Parvati sculpture called “The Force of Breath”?

The title refers to an invisible energy that passes through matter and brings it to life. Here, breath becomes a metaphor for movement, the circulation of energy and transformation.

What is distinctive about this Parvati metal sculpture?

The sculpture is characterized by its openwork and fragmented forms. The metal is not treated as a closed volume: the openings allow light to pass through the work and directly contribute to its perception.

How large is “Pavarti – The Force of Breath”?

This work belongs to the Small-Size Bodies Collection. Its more intimate format makes it easy to install in a private space while retaining a strong sculptural presence. It is 10 in tall.

Which collection does this work belong to?

Pavarti – The Force of Breath belongs to the Collection Worksrange and to the Small-Size Bodies Collection.

Is this sculpture a work of contemporary art?

Yes. Through its treatment of the material, its approach to the body and its exploration of emptiness, light and textures, it forms part of a contemporary sculptural practice.

Why does the metal appear so organic in this sculpture?

The treatment of the material transforms the metal surface into an irregular, almost mineral or organic texture. This transformation softens the perception of metal as an industrial material and gives it a more vibrant dimension.

What does the female body symbolize in this work?

Here, the body becomes a space through which energy circulates. It evokes physical presence, inner strength, creation and transformation.

Who is this collectible sculpture intended for?

This work may appeal to contemporary art collectors, metal sculpture enthusiasts and people drawn to works inspired by mythology, the body and the representation of feminine energy.

Where can a Parvati metal sculpture be displayed?

Thanks to its small format, it can find a place in a home, library, display cabinet, office, gallery or space dedicated to contemporary art.