Moon, Clouds and Blossoming Cherry Branch

In this work, I aimed to capture the quiet beauty of a Japanese night within Manjū. In Japan, the pairing of the Moon and the blossoming Sakura symbolizes fleeting, fragile beauty and nostalgia (Mono no aware). The Moon, which dominates the centre, is carved from the translucent inner layer of the walrus tusk, giving it a soft, mystical glow.
Clouds are visible through the openwork, and the reverse side, which intentionally exposes the granulated inner layer of the tusk, features clouds.
​​The carving is stained with walnut ink and the natural dye Yashabushi. The leaves are emphasized using a burning needle, which adds depth to the texture. alrus tusk (utilizing the translucent middle and granulated inner layers), Yashabushi staining, walnut ink, burning needle.
Size: 2 inches across, ½ inch thick.
2008. UK, private collection.