Master of Metal Art and the Mercury Effect
Internationally recognized Bulgarian metal artist known for his groundbreaking Mercury Effect stainless-steel sculptures. His work blends ancient craftsmanship with contemporary innovation, transforming metal into fluid, reflective forms.
Artist Statement
As an artist, I see creativity as a reflection of one’s perception of life. My mirror-polished stainless-steel sculptures transform surroundings into playful distortions of light and form, turning even ordinary environments into something beautiful. Through my work, I aim to express an unwaveringly positive and life-affirming message. The essence of my art can be expressed in a single word – Life.
Rado Kirov
Master Metal Artist & Creator of the Mercury Effect
Biography
Rado Kirov was born in Bulgaria in 1955. His early fascination with metal art began with the Panagyursko Treasure, a masterpiece of Thracian gold craftsmanship. His career spans copper smithing, silver and gold artistry, and ultimately the invention of the Mercury Effect stainless-steel technique.
Early Life and Inspiration
Rado Kirov was born in Bulgaria in 1955. His fascination with metal art began in childhood when he first encountered the Panagyursko Treasure—an extraordinary Thracian collection of gold artefacts from the 3rd century BC. This formative experience shaped his lifelong passion for working with metals.
Apprenticeship and Mastery of Copper
At the age of 25, Rado began a decade-long apprenticeship in the town of Dobrich under Alexander Raev, one of Bulgaria’s most respected copper masters. Over ten years, he developed exceptional precision in copper smithing. He remains a member of the Bulgarian Association of Craftsmen, Section: Copper Smithing.
Transition to Silver and Gold in South Africa
In 1991, Rado immigrated to South Africa with his family. While working for the Pagliari Group in Cape Town, he refined his skills in silver and gold, hand-crafting numerous prestigious works, including:
A silver Chalice presented to Pope John Paul II from President Nelson Mandela and the South African Government (1998).
A silver Rose Bowl gifted to Crown Prince Naruhito of Japan and his wife.
The Alfred Dunhill Challenge Cup Trophy (golf).
Limited-edition collectors’ coins crafted in 1000 g pure silver and 1000 g 24-carat gold.
National Recognition
The South African Government commissioned Rado to create the new Parliamentary People’s Mace and the Black Rod mace—crafted from 18-karat gold—earning him national acclaim.
The Rhino Rhyton (2006)
Inspired once again by the Panagyursko Treasure, Rado created the Rhino Rhyton, a traditional wine vessel shaped like a rhinoceros, meticulously hand-crafted from 1,250 g of 22-karat gold. This piece stands as a testament to his mastery of traditional goldsmithing.
Shift to Product Design and Functional Art
Over the past two decades, Rado expanded his work into functional art and product design, collaborating with interior designers and architects around the world.
The Mercury Effect – Innovation in Stainless Steel (2012 – Present)
Seeking new artistic freedom, Rado began experimenting with stainless steel. Through years of exploration, he developed the Mercury Effect—a technique where he manipulates metal sheets by hand, using the natural physical properties of the steel to create fluid, reflective, three-dimensional surfaces that visually “move” with their environment.
This technique has become the signature of his contemporary sculptural work.