Natural horn, which comes from cattle or deer, is a practical and attractive material with a
long history of domestic use. It is relatively easy to work, and can be polished to a shine
that shows off the handsome, translucent grain and striated colors. The Vikings and other
ancient peoples used hollow cow horns as drinking vessels; today, a small spoon made
from horn is the traditional utensil with which to enjoy a boiled egg or serve caviar as this
neutral material does not alter flavors. It is also used extensively for small boxes and
trays, serving implements, and the handles on fine cutlery.
The mystique of horn lies in its magical potential for transformation from a humble, utilitarian material to a dazzlingly beautiful, yet exceptionally durable, piece of art. Nowhere is this remarkable quality more evident than in the uniquely-designed horn pieces in the Sandra Jordan Collection.
Just as stone demands the masterful eye and skilled hand of a sculptor and his tools, so does horn beg the visionary gaze of a craftsman and his crucible. For it is fire that elevates horn from its natural state to one of exceptional splendor, revealing its subtle beauty: waves and whorls of warm golden and amber hues.
Each piece of horn has a distinctive natural shape and tones. These unique qualities are brought to life and illuminated only through careful handcrafting. Sandra Jordan and her team of artisans work together in the Collection’s workshop to create designs that showcase the horn and then individually assess each piece to determine its ultimate identity. The results speak for themselves: horn pieces that boast unparalleled opulence in color and grain, with a smooth, warm texture that is simply without rival.
|