This is the latest in a series of bud vases that I have been doing. Each one has a nature themed subject. This bud vase, Pond Life, reminded me of walking at the edge of our pond during the summer looking for bullfrogs. Peeking silently through the cattails in hopes of catching a glimpse of the frogs, fishes or dragonflies.

Pond Life was created using Argentium silver, a highly tarnish resistant silver. The images are chased and repoussé into the surface with areas being cut away during the chasing of the front of the vessel. The catkins have been textured while the surface of the cattail leaves are highly polished. The vase rests on a lily pad of Argentium silver with a small, cast, sterling silver frog perched at its edge. Forged cattail branches encircle the base. A blown blue glass insert allows the vase to be functional.

Dimensions: 7” height x 4” diameter base

One of a kind 2018

Photography: Image Quest Photography, Terry Weckbaugh