The Iron Fish Sculpture Signature Process

Each fish sculpture is carefully oxidize, hand-forge, weld and shape the metal using traditional blacksmithing and self-taught methods often using hand crafted tools. You will notice that each piece has a unique vintage finish that took Chase years to develop. Visitors can watch Chase Allen at work at The Iron Fish Gallery & Studio on Daufuskie Island, South Carolina.

Why are the fish numbered, stamped, and signed?

By signing, stamping and dating each aquatic fish sculpture, Chase is protecting the artwork against "design theft". You will always be able to prove that you have an original design–not a copy–by looking at the backside of your fish. Many customers and collectors enjoy using these stamped numbers to keep track of the various changes in the designs that develop over the years.

When you are viewing fish sculptures on the "current", "retired", or "permanent" sculpture pages, notice that a CA is cut for the shape of the fishes eye. This stylized form of authentication has been added to each fish sculpture created since early/mid 2007. Take a look at the "retired" sculptures created before 2007 and you will notice the eye's did not have this signature touch. Keep an "eye" out for the recently added subliminal signature that you will find on your new metal fish sculpture. FYI, this form of authentication is not added to the crab , stingray, or mermaid sculptures.

Click on the illustration below to learn how to identify your signature art piece.

Is It Handmade?
All Chase Allen iron fish sculptures are handmade, but not everyone relies on traditional methods anymore. Here's how to tell if a piece of metal art is truly unique:

1. Are the edges imperfect? Most enthusiasts of handmade metalwork seek out rougher edges. Computer-driven torches and lasers make perfect edges, which definitely detract from the uniqueness of the art.

2. Is the shop high-tech? If you have the opportunity, tour the shop, ask questions and look around for signs of a mechanized assembly line.

3. Is there a computer nearby? A computer inside the shop indicates that the craftsman may not be cutting with a hand-held torch. If the metalworker has been "working" and his or her clothes are clean, that could mean that the computer is doing all of the work.

4. Does the work have a signature? Most true artists sign their pieces upon completion.