In the Garden - Monarch Butterfly

My idea for this series was to create sets of flora and fauna that can be hung separately or hung together, creating 3 different looks - the floral wreath alone, the Monarch Butterfly alone, and then the two together. Together they create an image of each creature in its natural habitat.

Each creature is shown with flowers that they feed on in the wild. For the Monarch the flowers I chose are Milkweed and Black Eyed Susan. The pale pink Milkweed bloom is accented in white to mimic the texture of the flower. A stem of pale teal green leaves curls around the outside of the wreath. A copper loop is attached at the top of the wreath for hanging.

The Monarch is cut from an amber-orange stained glass, then hand-painted and fired to an enamel finish. Care was taken to replicate the butterfly's wing patterns as faithfully as possible, including the light veining of the wings. Two discreet copper loops are attached to the top of the wings and then connected by a thin copper chain for hanging.

I have included images of the wreath and creature shown separately and together so you can get a feel of the adaptability of the pieces.

Measurements of the butterfly (not including chain)
Width: 5.25"
Height: 3.25"

Measurements of the wreath
Width: 10"
Height: 10"

Handmade by ABJ Glassworks in Philadelphia using stained glass, silver-alloy solder and eco-friendly techniques.