This is my interpretation of 'Halcyon Days'. Originating from Greek legend, the 'Halcyon' was a kingfisher-like sea bird believed to have the power to calm the seas for two weeks around the winter solstice, so that it could safely make a nest and hatch its young. Over the centuries the meaning has changed somewhat, so that now 'Halcyon Days' are associated with a nostalgic view of long warm summers gone by.

I sculpted this circular plaque in deep relief in wax and after moulding, I then produced it in cold-cast pewter, bronze and copper in my coal shed!

Once the plaque has been cast, it is then sanded, rubbed with wire wool, polished, waxed and then mounted on a ceramic wall tile and gift boxed. The finished wall plaque measures approximately 12.5 cm x 12.5 cm and it has a small brass hook on the reverse for hanging. The back is also finished in black felt fablon.

The plaque is presented in a gift box made from recyled black board (supplied by Dragon's den winning contestants; the Tiny Box Company), which I hand decorate with lilac paper raffia and silver paint. There is an information card and gift tag also provided.

I also produce this design with a turquoise wash in the detail (I've listed each finish separately)

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