Artist Hand Carves Pearls Into Attractive ‘Fairy Skulls’

Tokyo-based Shinji Nakaba had since 1974 been creating unique pieces of Jewelry. As compared with other artists, all that Nakaba creates is totally wearable. 

With his creations known as ‘Wearable Sculptures’ Nakaba uses unconventional materials for most of his works and these intricately carved pearls skulls are just one example of his excellent work.

Right after attempting these skull carvings with coral, crystal, precious stones and ivory, Nakaba realized pearls without cores.  The absence of core permits for smoother carvings, without the issue of peeling or shredding.  

“I just want to bring brand new life to something that has no value,” Nakaba said. On Esty profile he explains, “I use not only precious metals and stones, but also everyday things, such as aluminum beer cans, plastic bottle, or even garbage,” he added.

While on his website, Nakaba also wrote about his pearl skull carvings:

“I’ve experimented with a different type of materials to carve out skulls but the ones I carved out of pearls are by far the best in terms of the durability. I also thought the contradiction between pristine pearls turning into these dark objects seemed even more appealing. 

I would call them Fairy Skulls. Only pearls can make my idea of ephemeral beauty into reality,” he said further.

More info : work.s-nakaba.com | Etsy | mobilia-gallery.com