Artist: Lee Mannikko, Seattle, WA
Studio: Pacific Wonderland Designer Art studio
Weeping Pussy Willow trees are a lovely ornamental tree found in many garden landscapes. One of my sponsors in the Northwest where I live has one in her backyard and I couldn't resist the challenge to create a sculpture of this beautiful tree. Weeping Pussy Willow trees have a unique shape to their branches falling down the sides of the tree with cascades of the silver buds and interspersed leaves. The rugged trunk is leaning so the branches have a cascading waterfall effect. Many of these trees tend to grow to one side when left to natures forces.
For this piece I chose the soft gray tones of Labradorite with its iridescent blue and green highlights. I mixed in lots of fancy Czech glass Hematite teardrops to depict the buds that flow all the way down each branch. I used 26, 24 and 22 gauge, tarnish resistant sterling silver plated wire, which I antiqued lightly by hand to help show shadows in the trunk. Antiqued silver leaves are used to accent the piece and add some depth and texture. The sculpture is mounted on finished Manzanita burl wood.
Gemstone Carat weights:
Labradorite: 1,230
Total Carats: 1,230
This tree was a commissioned piece made to a customers specifications.
Available at Fine Art Gallerias, or for commissioned orders. Please email for more information.
p35collector from Baltimore, Maryland
The artist listened to my requests and created something even more beautiful than I had imagined. The tree is captivating. Guests to my home are awed by the beauty and the quality of the work. The attention given to detail is amazing. Since this is a 3 dimensional piece it was important that the artist create beauty from all angles. She did an amazing job. This is a 5 star artist! Very talented!
Seller response: It was truely a pleasure making this commissioned piece for your new home. I enjoyed working with you immensely. Thank-you for your compliments.