Silver and gold, United States, Rockville, Maryland, 1999, mark of Komelia Homgja Okim.

The server has the form of a human figure. The blade (head) is a transverse navette shape, the leading edge is sharpened and presents an undulating waved or scalloped contour. The surface has a scoured finish. The blade is attached to an underpiece and a complex handle frame made from oxidised vertical silver bands of variable width (roughly one cm) and thickness (approximately 1-1.6 mm). The handle has the overall shape of the torso, with outstretched arms and a complex anatomy made up of curves, scallops and angular shapes. The structure is highlighted by five small circles and arched areas with textured gold foil surfaces applied by burnishing, a Korean technique called kum-boo.

Given by the American Friends of the V&A through the generosity of Professor B. Seymour Rabinovitch

Part of a collection of fish slices commissioned by Professor Rabinovitch from contemporary North American and British makers.

Historical significance: Okim's work is influenced by the principles of feng shui which focuses on the relationship between humans and their environment, portraying the complex interplay between man and landscape. Her focus on balancing media, materials and colour is directed by the principle of ying-yang and the duality of life.

This server takes the abstracted form of a human figure, the complexity of shapes, pattern, and colour recall a wide-range of inspirations. The geometric suggestions of form allude to tribal art while the bold lines and glamorous gold highlights are reminiscent of the Jazz Age. The intricate design is multi-layered, the blade in its entirety is suggestive of a torso yet the intricate design using silver strips evokes a fish-like essence in the amalgamation of curves and angles, fins and scales.

Okim has used the opportunity of this commission to create a striking decorative extravaganza. The solid, matt navette blade makes a bold contrast to the structure of the handle. Silver flat strip is used almost like scrolled paper work, called quilling, to create a light but detailed pattern, reminiscent of the Jazz Age. Alternating curves and right angles also suggest scale and fin, and perhaps the rapid swish of some marine animal. The gilded finial and detailing add a sense of glamour and luxury.

M.110-2008