Dana Widmer Aguilera - As Above, So Below...

Artist: Dana Widmer Aguilera, SwitzerlandMaterials: silver sterling Size: 7.5Dimensions: ca. 2" x 1" x 1"; band width is ca. 0.32" (8 mm) Artist Statement: With this massive conceptual statement ring featuring a graveyard scene and a crypt, I set out to create an artistic interpretation of the expression "as above, so below ...", and I was determined to make something that has an element of surprise to it: a ring with a hidden compartment that could be worn on one finger when closed, and on two when opened. The true challenge here was coming up with a concealed hinge mechanism that allows the wearer to open the ring a full 180° - regular hinges only open at a much smaller angle. Eventually, I came up with this double-hinge that slides apart a little to give enough room for the two ring halves to be fully opened. The open or closed position is secured by a scythe and a bone using a simple plug-in connection. The body, as well as the coffin and the skull, were hand-carved in wax separate