Decorative Gourd I

Decorative Gourd I started in my hands long after the harvest, when this plump little form had fully dried and hardened into a perfect canvas. 

I painted it in tall, jewel-toned panels - pumpkin, green, crimson, blue - then edged each one with brushed antique gold and crowned the stem to match.

A glossy seal brings everything to a gentle shine, so it glows under lamplight on a table or mantel. 

Though its shape nods to autumn, the rich colors make it a year-round accent, especially for anyone who loves natural objects dressed up in their most festive clothes.