Raku butterfly wall-art

This is my unique raku copper effect decorative butterfly wall-art. The butterfly has been a symbol of transformation, hope and faith for thousands of years. It is a symbol of rebirth, since it goes through so many life cycles -- from larva to caterpillar to chrysalis and finally to a beautiful butterfly. Dimensions: 11cm H x 17cm W x 9mm D approx It's has been made using a raku clay and the slab-work method using an Indian carved stamp - fine wire has been shaped to form the antennae. Once dried it is bisque fired to 1000 - any rough edges are sanded before a raku glaze is applied. The smoked blackened area around the edges is a natural feature of the raku firing method. RAKU METHOD Raku is a rapid firing technique, adapted from an ancient Japanese firing. A small number of pieces are placed in a small gas fired kiln and fired up to around 1,000c, each piece is then individually taken out of the kiln red hot around 800c and placed in a bin of sawdust, wood shavings or newspaper which instantly combust, the actual finish is then down to careful timing, longer in the air will give bigger heavier crazing, covering quickly leaves areas with no crazing but the crazing itself is very random and this gives each piece its own character. Finally remove pieces and drench in water and leave to cool before cleaning. Self-adhesive cork has been applied to protect surfaces. RAKU POTTERY IS NOT FOOD SAFE.