Ant sculpture of onyx, crystal, and silver, Ilias Lalaounis, Greece

A unique and rare art object by the renowned Greek designer Ilias Lalaounis. This refined sculpture depicts an ant and is masterfully crafted from deep black onyx, clear crystal, and sterling silver. The design combines natural elegance with Lalaounis' characteristic artistic style, known worldwide for his luxury jewelry and sculptural objects inspired by nature and history.

The powerful design and the use of contrasting materials give the object a striking and almost lifelike appearance. Thanks to its high-quality finish and unique design, this piece is not only a decorative art object but also a valuable collectible for lovers of design and silver art.

Details:

• Designer: Ilias Lalaounis
• Material: Onyx, crystal, and sterling silver
• Height: 15.5 cm
• Width: 5 cm
• Weight: 223 grams
• Hallmarked with 925, Greece, and maker's mark
• Condition: Very good condition

An elegant and rare design object that makes a special eye-catcher in both an art collection and a stylish interior. Ideal for collectors of Ilias Lalaounis' work or lovers of unique sculptures with a story.

An exclusive piece where craftsmanship, design, and natural materials come together.

About the designer:

Ilias Lalaounis

Ilias Lalaounis was one of the most influential jewelry designers of the 20th century. He was born in 1920 in Athens, Greece and grew up in a family that had been active in gold and silver artistry for generations. Early on, he developed a strong interest in history, archaeology, and art—influences that would later be clearly reflected in his designs.

Inspiration from Greek History

Lalaounis gained international fame for jewelry and objects inspired by ancient Greek, Byzantine, and Minoan art. He studied archaeological finds from, among others, the Minoan Civilization and Mycenaean Civilization and translated these forms into modern jewelry. His work combines classical motifs with contemporary design.

International Recognition

From the 1960s onwards, he gained worldwide recognition. His collections were sold in major cities such as Paris, New York, London, and Tokyo. He also collaborated with couture houses and designed jewelry for prestigious clients and collectors.

A significant milestone was the establishment of the Ilias Lalaounis Jewelry Museum in Athens, where his designs, techniques, and sources of inspiration are exhibited. The museum showcases how he combined traditional goldsmithing techniques with artistic sculpture.

Characteristics of his Work

Typical of Lalaounis' work are:

• strong sculptural forms
• inspiration from nature and mythology
• use of precious metals combined with stones such as onyx, crystal, and semi-precious stones
• handmade techniques based on ancient goldsmithing traditions

In addition to jewelry, he also designed small sculptures and objects, such as animal figures, insects, and mythological forms—often executed in silver and natural stone.

Legacy

Ilias Lalaounis passed away in 2013, but his name remains an important reference in the world of design and art jewelry. His work is collected by museums and private collections worldwide.