Burning Crescent

Sculptural light work carved from Texas pecan.

Work Description

Burning Crescent is carved from a single cross-section of Central Texas pecan, defined by a naturally asymmetric profile and a pronounced internal void created from rot. The curvature of the form establishes a contained, crescent-like arc, allowing mass and negative space to remain in deliberate balance.

When illuminated, light enters from above and moves downward into the internal chamber, activating dense growth rings and the pecan’s saturated tonal range. Deep ambers, golds, and subtle red undertones intensify along the curve, producing a concentrated internal glow that emphasizes depth rather than surface brightness.

Resting on a brushed stainless-steel base, Burning Crescent presents a compact yet forceful presence. Its strength lies in restraint—light held within the form, curvature resolved without excess, and material allowed to speak through structure and illumination.

Each Arte LUMIS piece is one-of-a-kind.

Specifications

Material: Texas pecan wood
Form: Solid wood cross-section (cookie)
Dimensions: ≈ 26 in (H) × ≈ 23 in (L) × ≈ 4 in (T)
Base: ≈ 14 × 20 in, brushed stainless steel
Light source: Integrated LED
Socket type: GU10 (top) + G9 (lower left and right)
Wattage: 6W (GU10) + 2 × 4W (G9)
Color temperature: 3000K (GU10) / 2700–3000K (G9)
Finish: Hand-finished, natural oil
Year: 2025

Burning Crescent was developed by working within the natural curvature of the pecan cross-section rather than reshaping it into symmetry. The internal void was carved to establish depth and directional flow, with light introduced only after the relationship between mass and negative space resolved. Illumination was integrated to remain contained within the form, reinforcing curvature and internal structure without overpowering the material.