The Iron Fish Sculpture Signature Process

Why are the fish numbered, stamped, and signed?

By signing, numbering and dating each aquatic or fish sculpture, I'm 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 of my collectors enjoy tracking the changes in the designs that develop over the years.

When you are viewing the fish sculptures on the fish sculptures page, notice that the eyes are my initials CA. I have added this stylized form of authentication to each fish sculpture since early/mid 2007. Keep an "eye" out for the recently added subliminal signature that you will find on each metal fish sculpture . I thought one more form of quasi hidden authentication wouldn’t hurt.

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.