Swan – Hand-Forged Pen Holder
Author: Ladislav Gulyás, ⏱️ 3 minutes
Technical specifications:
Material: Metal / iron
Dimensions: Depth 135 mm, height 94 mm.
Weight: 0.6 kg
Finish: Matte varnish
Status: Available / For sale
When design replaces the mundane. The story behind a hand-forged pen holder from a limited artist edition.
Why shouldn't we surround ourselves with something different? Why do we always use the same templates? Why not step off the beaten path and treat ourselves to something different? Something no one else has? Just you.
This hand-forged pen holder is being created as a limited artist's edition. I'll make only seven pieces, and the prototype will remain in my studio. Is that a lot? Is that a little? In mass production, it's a negligible amount. For an artist's creation, seven pieces is just right.
Artistic Blacksmithing with a Modern, Minimalist Approach
Artistic blacksmithing need not be associated exclusively with the Middle Ages or with the restoration of castles, chateaus, or manor houses. In my opinion, this wonderful craft rightfully belongs in the 21st century. We don't have to follow established templates, volutes, "S-curves," and so on. Times have changed, and blacksmithing must change as well. It simply has to keep up with the times.
Experiment – Search, Find
When creating applied art, the most important thing for me is to find the right form. You have to let go of that initial "flow," but sometimes you need to make things functional. This case was no different. I sought and ultimately found inspiration in nature—pure, undisturbed organic lines that blend seamlessly with a modern interior.
I spent two days searching for the right form, and in the process, I produced several failed attempts. Yes, no one can avoid that when creating art... I was trying to achieve what is known as the "serpentine figure." This term was primarily associated with late Renaissance sculpture, when artists sought the perfect form to give the sculpture a dynamic appearance. I think this concept captures the essence of this work best.
When Design Replaces Ordinariness
I believe that even the most mundane everyday items can carry a distinct aesthetic while remaining fully functional. Perhaps that is why I look for artistry in even the simplest objects. In my artistic work, I make no compromises and avoid mass production. My goal is to create pieces with their own story, purity of form, and character.
A limited edition of these pen stands is now taking shape. Each piece is signed, accompanied by a certificate of authenticity including the item's unique serial number. A lifetime warranty comes standard—just as with all my original works.
"Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life."
— Pablo Picasso
I think the photographs truly capture that inimitable sense of calm. When were they taken? On a Saturday morning? On a Sunday afternoon? What are the pens waiting for? To record your thoughts in a journal or words expressing love? Perhaps to sign an important business contract that will change your life...
I am not merely making a utilitarian object. I want to enrich your life with an experience.
Photo: Ladislav Gulyás Metal Studio