I create this skull sculpture in metal lace as a fragile presence, almost balanced between disappearance and permanence.
With Suspended Vanity, I wanted to explore the tension between raw material and visual lightness. The skull, a universal symbol of passing time, is transformed here into an openwork, almost organic form, where emptiness becomes as important as fullness.
The metal lace, a signature of my work, allows me to reveal the internal structure of the material. Nothing is hidden. Every perforation, every roughness tells a story of transformation, a controlled erosion.
The bronze support acts like a living column, a frozen growth that seems to hold the skull as a fragment of history suspended in time.
I chose a round, stable, and textured base to anchor this piece in reality while allowing the whole to visually rise.
This work is part of my Intimate Sculptures: pieces that engage with the nearby space, inviting slow, almost meditative observation.
Dimensions: Height 9.1 in - Width 3.9 in - Depth 4.3 in
FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
What is the meaning of this skull sculpture?
This sculpture is part of the tradition of artistic vanities. It evokes the fragility of life and the passage of time, while enhancing the material.
What technique is used to create the metal lace?
Philippe Buil uses a metal casting technique that creates unique metal lace effects impossible to reproduce identically.
What materials make up the sculpture?
The sculpture is made of steel worked into metal lace, combined with bronze for the structure, with a signed metal base.
Is this a unique piece?
Yes, each sculpture is an original work, entirely handmade, which guarantees its unique character.
Where can this sculpture be displayed?
This sculpture is ideal for a contemporary interior, an office, a gallery, or a collection space. It works particularly well under directed lighting.
Which collection does this artwork belong to?
It is part of the Skull Collection and the Intimate Sculptures range by Philippe Buil.
How to care for a metal sculpture?
The steel and bronze are protected by a high-quality professional varnish. A simple regular dusting with a soft brush is enough to preserve the fine details and the shine of the metals over the long term.
