Dragon with Celtic inspired Design, Haitian Metal Wall Artwork 14″ x 17″

This bold and majestic dragon is a statement piece in the fullest sense of the word. Wonderful as an accent to Asian decor indoors or out. Though fearsome in appearance, the dragons of Chinese legend were benevolent, powerful and wise, able to summon the rain as well as bear good fortune. Though I can’t swear to it, this dragon might bring you good fortune too… In the village of Croix-des-Bouquets, Haiti, the air rings with the sound of metal banging against metal. Workshops line the streets of the village and outside each are stacks of discarded 55-gallon drums awaiting transformation. To begin the process, the tops of the barrels are removed and the open barrel is stuffed with straw and dried banana leaves and then set ablaze. This burns out the residue and old paint and strengthens the metal. After the barrels have cooled, they are slit down the side, pried open, pounded flat and sanded down, giving the artist a smooth flat surface, much like a painter’s canvas. The artist chalks his design onto the metal and then, using a hammer and chisel, begins the work of cutting the sculpture and giving it form, detail and dimension. When he is satisfied with his results, he pounds his signature onto the sculpture and seals it with a protective, weather-proof finish.Though it comes with a protective weather-proof coating, it will wear off over time outdoors and rusting can occur. You can prevent this from happening by spraying on a clear enamel coating. Once a year is plenty. Now, how easy is that?Thank you for your interest and support!