Jacob Wrestling with the Angel

Metallic Version
After Gustave Doré
SERIES
YEAR
2024–2026
MEDIUM
Carved wood and cast-epoxy, fully clad in gold metallic leaves
DIMENSIONS
152 × 170 cm (59.8 × 66.9 in)
“And he said, Thy name shall be called no more Jacob, but Israel: for as a prince hast thou power with God and with men, and hast prevailed.”
Genesis 32:28
Price$115,000

About

This Work

The Metallic Version translates the same composition into a wholly different visual experience. Fully clad in gold metallic leaves, every surface catches light differently at every angle. Where the carved wood version communicates struggle and shadow within heavily framed boundaries, the Metallic Version communicates transformation — the moment after the night is over and darkness gives way to first light,  when what happened cannot be undone and the blessing has already been given.

Art Built to Last for Centuries

Wood Carving

In the carved wooden works, the initial preparation may involve CNC technology to establish the primary structure and composition. Amnon then continues through extensive manual carving, refinement, and surface work. The balance between technological preparation and handwork varies according to the scale, subject, and requirements of each piece.

Cast-Epoxy

Epoxy resin is used in selected works as an independent material or in combination with carved wood. Its role differs from one piece to another and may include structural, visual, translucent, or surface-related functions.

Gold, Silver & Copper Leaves

The gilding stage is the final and most demanding phase. Metallic leaves, 24 Karat gold, silver, and copper, are applied by hand, sheet by sheet, to the finished surface. The technique is ancient, used for centuries to adorn relics, altarpieces, and sacred objects. In Amnon's work it serves the same purpose: to signal that what you are looking at is not ordinary.

How a Monumental

Work Is Made

Source, Research & Interpretation

Most works begin with a close study of a well-known artwork or engraving. Amnon develops a personal interpretation through material, technique, scale, composition, and surface treatment.

Planning & Digital Preparation

The composition, scale, and proportions are prepared for production. In carved wooden works, this stage may include CNC-assisted preparation before the manual carving process begins.

Manual Carving & Refinement

Following the initial preparation, Amnon performs extensive manual carving and refinement, developing the surfaces, forms, and details of the work.

Casting & Integration

In works that include cast-epoxy, the cast elements are produced and integrated according to the specific material and compositional requirements of the piece.

Surface Preparation

The combined structure is prepared for gilding: smoothed, sealed, and given a base that will hold the metallic leaves.

Gilding

Gold, silver, and copper leaves are applied by hand, one sheet at a time. A large-scale work can require weeks of gilding alone.

Documentation

Each completed work is photographed professionally, measured precisely, and documented for the collector’s record.

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