Leen Heyne: The Power of Metals
The ability of Dutch designer Leen Heyne to preserve and enhance the intrinsic natural forces of precious materials offers a fresh perspective on contemporary design
In his studio in Tilburg, in the Dutch province of Brabant, Leen Heyne generates one-of-a kind pieces that are the result of a fascinating personal technique in which the designer involves craftsmanship, nature and innovation. His creation principle is closely linked to the inherent natural forces of the precious materials he uses. In Heyne's hands, gold and platinum are bent, forced and twisted to create “free”, super fine and sinuous lines that retain all the original power of the metals. The addition of diamonds always takes place during the modelling phase so that the gems are trapped in a metallurgical dance of tension, held in place as if by magic.»
COLLABORATIVE CREATION
In this ring, made in collaboration with Joseph W Ramsay, the gold is skillfully molded into serpentine lines to hold an antique, pear-cut diamond.
CUSHION DIAMOND
This 18-carat yellow gold ring, set with an impressive cushion cut antique diamond, represents a union between timeless elegance and masterlycraftsmanship.
PEAR DIAMOND
Like roots that pursue water to find flowing life, so the gold in this ring magically wraps itself around a central, pear-cut, antique diamond.
SERPENT RING
The form of a snake is revealed in all its symbolic power in a creation made of sinuous gold lines culminating in the tapered shapes of two brown diamonds.