"In Austria, every great peak ends with a summit cross. I brought that piece of home into the studio."
The Story
I found this ornate metal cross at a thrift store, and it immediately took me back to Austria. On mountain peaks there, you'll often find a Gipfelkreuz — a summit cross standing at the highest point of the climb, exposed to wind, snow, sun, and time.
I knew instantly I had to build a mountain to hold it up.
I cut a heavy piece of raw steel at an angle to create the peak, then welded it onto a thick steel plate rescued from a scrap pile at a metal supply store. The ornate cross rises above the raw geometry below, creating a contrast between refined detail and heavy industrial steel.
A natural rust patina gives the entire piece the feeling of something that has already stood through years of weather.
A piece of Austria. Rebuilt in steel. Made to stand tall.
Where It Belongs
Perfect for an entryway, living room, office, studio, sunroom, or covered patio. At 39 inches tall and 30 pounds, The Iron Summit has the weight and presence to stand as a focal point rather than fill a space.
The Details
◆ Dimensions: 39" H × 12" W × 8" D
◆ Weight: 30 lbs
◆ Materials: Thrifted ornate metal cross, raw cut-steel peak, and scrap steel base plate
◆ Finish: Sealed natural rust patina for indoor or covered outdoor display
◆ Signed Original: By artist Doris Plaichner
◆ Local Pickup: Free pickup available in Mesa, AZ — McKellips & Val Vista
◆ Shipping: Available throughout the USA; carefully packed for transit
One sculpture. One owner. No reproductions.
Handcrafted. One of a kind. Once it's gone, it's gone forever.
