The Helmeted Hornbill, native to the lowland tropical rainforests of Southeast Asia, is now Critically Endangered due to illegal poaching and habitat loss. Unlike other hornbills, it has a dense solid casque, known as “red ivory”, which has long been valued for carving into luxury objects and status symbols. As restrictions have increased, black-market demand has intensified, driving further hunting and trafficking. Red for Black responds to this violence through the image of a Helmeted Hornbill skull breaking through a suitcase, symbolically “pecking” its way out and exposing the hidden realities of wildlife smuggling. The battered case alludes to illegal trade routes, while rich purple velvet inside references luxury, power, and the value placed on “red ivory”. Garnet beads join the two halves, allowing the piece to be assembled and worn as a mini handbag, evoking both bloodshed and resilience in the fight to protect this species.
Product: mini decorative purse/ bracelet - interactive objet d’art
Materials: tagua nut, copper, garnet, velvet, sterling silver
Measurements: 35 mm x 46 mm x 35 mm
Weight: 53 g
Red for Black, 2025
Returns Eligibility
You may return an item provided that:
I am notified via email that you wish to return the item.
The item is returned within 30 days of purchase.
The item is unused, undamaged, and in its original condition.
The item is returned in its original packaging.
The return is sent using a tracked shipping service.
Returns that do not meet these conditions may not be accepted or may be subject to a partial refund.
How to Initiate a Return
To request a return, please email with:
Your order number
The item(s) you wish to return
Reason for return
Return instructions will then be provided.
Refunds
Once your return has been received and inspected:
A full refund will be issued within 10 days.
Refunds will be made to the original payment method.
Original shipping costs are non-refundable unless the item is faulty or incorrect.
Return Shipping
Return shipping costs are the responsibility of the customer unless the item is faulty or incorrect.
Items must be returned using a tracked service. I am not responsible for items lost in transit.
Faulty or Damaged Items
If your item arrives damaged or faulty:
Please contact me within 24 hours of delivery.
Include clear photographs of the item and packaging.
You will be offered a repair, partial or full refund, including any shipping costs where applicable.
Custom & Bespoke Items
Due to the nature of handmade work: custom or made-to-order items are non-refundable unless faulty.
All pieces are carefully packaged to ensure they arrive safely. Orders are typically dispatched within one week. Shipping is carried out using a tracked service, usually via Royal Mail Tracked 48, and a signature will always be required on delivery. Tracking details will be provided once your order has been dispatched.