As a former academic, one that was ‘forced’ read Dante, I have a special appreciation for Anne Fischer‘s re-telling of the Divine Comedy. This ongoing series of rings was initially started in 2001, the Cantos collection is inspired by Dante Alighieri’s epic 14th century poem the “Divine Comedy.” Drawing on the strict structure of the poem, the rings aim to translate this into sculptural objects that evolve from each other to tell a greater story. This series of rings appeal to my love of great literature and typography. Perfect wedding bands perhaps?
Using plaster, wax and precious metals, Fischer makes each ring individually with the lost-wax process and casts in 18k gold, sterling silver or a combination of the two. Each ring contains an intricately carved inscription and often an accompanying scene to reflect a specific moment in one of the poems 67 cantos.
My personal favourite in the inside-out Hell-IX (top left). I like its inside-out nature that further abstracts the text to the reader and keeps it a secret that only I know. It is beautifully ugly. And I will love responding when people ask: is that Maison Martin Margiela ? No.