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by GarE Maxton
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This unusual Micro-Conundrum is made from Mokume-gane metal composed of alternating layers of copper and nickel silver; the Mokume-gane I've made has a unique solid and striped geometric pattern. I combined the metals in my studio using a very time consuming process called diffusion welding where numerous clean flat plates of metal are clamped together and endure high heat in a kiln for 12 hours. The resulting Mokume-gane metal is a permanently bound combination of two or more non-ferrous metals. These multi-metal ingots are extremely strong and can be milled on my CNC machines into individual pieces. 
This beveled Micro-Conundrum is made from Mokume-gane metal composed of alternating layers of copper and brass. 
An closeup view of a single piece of the sculpture showing the distinct layers of copper and brass. History Mokume-gane was developed in Japan about 300 years ago and originally developed from the need to create a wood grain pattern similar to Damascus Steel using a metal forge. The technique uses silver and gold and various base metals including copper and bronze. These colorful metals were used to adorn the handles of the best Samarai swords of the time.
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