William Fiorini / Metalsmith

Artist Statement

I have been pursuing pattern development in ferrous and non-ferrous metals for the last 15 years. Most of my work is research into pattern-welded steel (Damascus) and Mokume-Gane. Much of my time is directed to investigation of old patterns used by metalsmiths in Europe and Japan. The European 17th and 18th century gun barrels are highly developed composites of mosaic pattern forms and the Japanese swords and sword furniture are simple, but complex, statements in pattern development of both ferrous and non-ferrous metals by diffusion. I am influenced by the Japanese metalwork more than the European because of aesthetic form, but both areas have given me direction to pursue my statements in metal.

Garden Gate, 1985, Damascus and Mild Steel, 3' High




Wall Mirror, 1985, Checkerboard Mosaic Damascus, Mild Steel,
\tMirror and Delrin, 12"




Pin, 1989, Mokume-Gane, Sterling Silver, Ivory and
\tMoonstones, 8"





Pin, 1992, Mokume-Gane, Sterling Silver and Garnet, 5"





Pendant, 1986, Damascus , Sterling Silver and Picture Agate
\tPendant, 5"

Pin, 1992, Mokume-Gane, Shibuichi and Sterling Silver, 4"

Pistol Barrel, 1990, Double Strand Damascus, 9"

Lockback Folder, 1994, Checkerboard Composite Mosaic
\tDamascus, Mokume-Gane and Pink Ivory, 6" Open

Japanese Kitchen Knife,1993, Random San-Mai Damascus,
\tShibuichi and Cocabolla, 15"

Shirabiki Wood Marking Knife,1993, Laminated Damascus, 7"

Skinner, 1993, Chevron Star Damascus, Brass and Ebony, 8"