Filigree Play by Henry Mardisalu at the A-Galerii Vault

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Henry Mardisalu

In his hands, metal has felt like a living material from the very beginning, and his greatest passion has become the intricate filigree technique, which he learned under the guidance of his grandmother, the renowned jeweller Aino Kapsta.

Over the years, moving away from the grandmother's more classical approach, Mardisalu has developed his own modern and bold artistic language. His pieces often take the form of geometric architectural compositions, where influences of Middle Eastern ornamentation and complex patterned structures can be observed.

Mardisalu recalls: Aino used to say that in filigree, the most important thing is always the first bead or twist you make. These words capture the essence of filigree: working with extreme precision must begin from the very first millimetre.” The artist adds that playful creative freedom is equally essential: “At times one must step away from strict ornamentation in favour of freely flowing forms. This is how airy volumes and plays of light and shadow emerge on the surface of metal. Through working with filigree, I have come to understand that from even the finest beginning, something light and endlessly unique can arise.


Henry Mardisalu (1988) is an Estonian jewellery artist whose work centres on the skilled use of filigree technique. After studying at the Viljandi Culture Academy, he began studying metal art in 2009 under the guidance of his grandmother, jeweller Aino Kapsta. Mardisalu has participated in numerous exhibitions both in Estonia and internationally.

Opening hours: Monday to Friday: 10 am - 6 pm. Saturday: 11 am - 4 pm.
Exhibitions at A-Galerii are supported by the Cultural Endowment of Estonia.
The exhibition will stay open until 26.07.2026.