Fruit On Vine Haitian Metal Drum Votive

When you visit Croix des Bouquets, the area of town known for Haitian metal art in the capital of Port-Au-Prince, you are met with a cacophony of tink, tink, tink as ball peen hammers strike sheets of steel. The sheets are cut from steel drums colored by oil and other liquids the drums at one time held. The process of turning sheets of metal into beautiful wall art is all done by hand, from cutting holes that become edges of trees and leaves, to accenting each lizard with a texture of scales, to painting or lacquering the final design. The artists are proud of their work, with many of them signing the pieces on the back side, leaving a raised, reversed signature on the front. Artisans have persevered during political turmoil, earthquakes, and extreme poverty. This purchase supports socially responsible sourcing and contributes to poverty alleviation.

This intricate bowl or votive holder depicts the native bread fruit from trees found in Haiti. Local artists are inspired by the nature around them as they form the art pieces from upcycled steel oil drum. A lovely addition to any table or nook in the home. Suitable for Indoor or Outdoor Use. Type: Metal Table Decor Colors: Metallic Materials: Upcycled Steel Metal Finish: Lacquer Dimensions: Approx. 4 Diameter Care: If using outdoors it is recommended to spray with a clear lacquer once or twice a year, as prolonged exposure to the elements will cause rust. Story Behind the Art The process of turning sheets of metal into beautiful art is all done by hand. Steel drums used to transport oil into the capital of Haiti are cut, the oil is burned off to clean the metal, and then flattened in order to create stunning, upcycled art.​​ Given the handmade nature of this product please allow for minor variations. As the metal is recovered from recycled oil drums and colored through a burning process it will vary slightly in coloration. Typically the piece has a darkened steel patina. Each piece of art is coated with a layer of clear lacquer to help protect the metal.