Johnny Hammerschmidt

Johnny Hammerschmidt is a named, signature model of beads bearing the name of its creator: behind the title stands a specific maker's hand — a recognisable combination of bead form, proportions, balance and character of run that he made his hallmark. Such named models in the world of beads are prized much as signature models in watchmaking or knifemaking: the name on the piece is both a signature and a guarantee of a certain level of execution. Because the exact constructive formula of such a model is part of its authorship, it is more correct to describe it as a signature style than to attribute invented technical details to it. It is worked as its author intended: bead balance and set are calculated for a well-judged, recognisable run, and that run is the model's value. Sound and feel are subordinated to the same authorial intent — wholeness of the sensation in the hand. The model's signature is precisely the authorship and the reputation of the hand: not a nameless form but a signed work with character. The model shows best on premium materials worthy of a signature piece — select mammoth ivory, aged precious woods, noble horn and amber — where quality of execution and of material reinforce one another.