Silver Prosthetic Finger Ornament, Shaun Leane

Cast with finger nail, rivets, and black leather binding and straps, length 3 ⅛ inches, with British hallmarks, indistinct maker's marks and McQueen copyright mark.

Savage Beauty, Victoria & Albert Museum, 14 March – 2 August, 2015.

In good condition, with cast finger nail and rivets attached to black leather collar and straps. White metal inscribed with 925 for sterling silver and engraved with indistinct maker's mark and McQueen copyright mark. Measuring approximately 3 ⅛ inches in length.
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‘Lee was inspired by Jane Campion’s 1993 film The Piano and asked me to create a silver finger ornament similar to the one in the movie. This was the first time that I had carved in wax and then cast into silver on a larger scale to ensure it would be visible on the catwalk. The evolution of this technique led to larger sculptures such as the Orchid Shoulder-Piece.’ S.L.

Created for Alexander McQueen's 'It's a Jungle Out There,' Autumn/Winter 1997-98. Worn on the catwalk by Maxim (Keith Palmer) from the group 'The Prodigy.'