metal animals

This sci-fi take on one of Africa's most singular creatures will make for a very cool desk partner or an excellent conversation piece nestled in your shelves. Armando Ramirez handcrafts it from a combination of recycled auto and bicycle metal parts, and gives it a rough, rustic finish for added grit.

The Mexican artisan has turned his childhood pastime of crafting toys into an art form that has allowed him to exploit his ingenuity and his creativity. He uses scrap metal from auto shops and bicycles to create sculptures, decor pieces, and even chess sets. The popularity of his creations has enabled Armando to start a workshop and dedicate himself full-time to his artistic pursuits.

With an expert eye, Mexico's Armando Ramirez envisions beauty in discarded auto parts and scrap metal, transforming them into a romantic statuette of a couple swaying on an ornate swing. Subtle varnish allows the metal's natural character to shine through while intricate details like flowers, leaves and butterflies add whimsical charm. This singular handcrafted sculpture is perfect for the eco-conscious connoisseur.

Crafted of sterling silver in rectangular shapes, these dangle earrings offer a glimpse into a world of 22k gold butterflies. Peruvian artisan Zaida Lanning designs this accessory, diligently applying the golden designs in the traditional Korean gilding technique of keum-boo.

A llama looks over his shoulder in this graceful sculpture by Marco Floríndez. "On the base, I added textures with the application of solder, which makes it very interesting," he says. "My theme was the agricultural evolution in the Andes. These animals play a part in many ways."

Modern and ancient trends merge into one pendant necklace, crafted by Armenia's Aram Torunyan. The artisan uses pieces of sterling silver, brass and copper to create the design, whose captivating pendant dangles from a faux leather cord. A mammoth glyph crowns the necklace, representing the beauty of the past.