Description
Inspiration for my Madagascan Moon Moth Brooch
Since owning a black coat with broad lapels in my twenties, I have always had a bit of a weakness for statement brooches. And, once I had modelled this beautiful moth as a pendant, a Moon Moth Brooch was inevitable. It was one of my earliest models. I have always asked people about their favourite creatures, particularly when meeting them at major fairs – and butterflies come up very regularly. However, much of their appeal lies in the intense beauty of their colourful wings, so I have always been more drawn to the less-celebrated moth. For a silver sculptor, moths hold a lot more intrigue for me: their furry bodies, large antennae and subtle but striking markings.
The Madagascan Moon Moth, however, is in a class of its own. Not only is it the second largest moth in the world but, with it’s wonderful tails, it is breathtakingly beautiful. I have always absolutely loved the colour, creativity and passion of the Art Nouveau period – and this moth seems to flutter straight out of this era. When people see the Moon Moth Brooch or pendant for the first time, I often have to show them the photo of the actual moth before they believe that this is purely nature’s design.
More recently. a customer loved her pendant so much that she asked if I would model matching Moon Moth Earrings. I was concerned that the beauty of the large moth wouldn’t translate into a smaller model – but I shouldn’t have worried. Both continue to be amongst the most admired in my collection.
