Carbonio ‒ sculptural objects
A material study
The oak is already a majestic tree in itself. It can live for centuries and outlast generations. Over time, it develops an expansive crown and can reach trunk circumferences of more than 10 meters. Its wood is hard and tough, durable, and also particularly aesthetic.
Due to the high content of tannin in oak wood, it is not only naturally antibacterial, but also has the property of changing color when in contact with iron salts. Thus, oaks that sink into the bog and remain there for centuries or even millennia, under conditions of oxygen deprivation and under the influence of iron-rich water and ammonia-laden vapors, develop dark brown to black discoloration.
These natural processes can be recreated by humans and applied in wood processing: Iron acetate-based stains can be used to superficially darken oak wood, and the process of "smoking" oak wood dyes it by evaporating aqueous ammonia solutions in a chamber with the wood.
On the other hand, wood can not only be darkened for aesthetic reasons but also to increase its durability. In this case, the surface is carbonized, i.e., superficially charred, making it not only water-repellent but also resistant to mold and decay, harmful insects, and even re-burning.
In Japan, this technique of controlled carbonizing of wood to preserve the local cedar wood has been used for centuries and is known there as "Yakisugi." Recently, this technique is also being increasingly used in Europe as it allows for the avoidance of chemical wood preservatives.
Carbonio is an exploration of these various techniques and processes. Solid blocks are cut from old, aged oak and then individually darkened using different natural methods. Either the blocks are sanded or brushed and blackened with iron acetate, or they are evenly charred.
Arranged in groups of three with coordinated proportions, the small sculptures celebrate the beauty and diversity of oak as a material.
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Available in differently treated oak wood
Limited to 20 sets per year
Different dimensions
260€/set + shipping
Lead time: 4 weeks
