Sculpture 'Don't bend' – Handcrafted smoke-fired art for inner strength & self-respect - Item No.: SKU031

The sculpture, measuring 21x9x6cm and weighing 960g, arrives securely packaged in recycled cushioning material.

Description:
This sculpture, "Don't Bend," is more than just a work of art—it's a powerful symbol of self-confidence, self-love, and the courage to remain true to oneself. Crafted from traditionally fired clay and refined using the rustic smoke-firing technique, it embodies the unwavering attitude that maintains inner strength amidst life's chaos. Each piece is unique, transformed through fire, ash, and time into a tangible manifestation of self-respect.

A tribute to authenticity
The organically shaped yet unyielding silhouette of the sculpture metaphorically resists the pressure to conform. Its rough, primitive surface, with deep smoke stains and natural cracks, speaks of the beauty of resistance – a statement against the compulsion for perfection, ideal as spiritual decor for spaces that foster reflection and empowerment. Place it on an altar, in a meditation area, or as a focal point in your living space to be reminded daily of the value of individuality.

Symbolism & Craftsmanship in Dialogue:

Design language: The sculpture represents the balance between softness and steadfastness – an invitation to set boundaries and yet remain in flux.

Rustic smoke-fired art: Each piece is fired in an open fire, creating a unique ash patina and smoky contrasts. No two sculptures are alike.

Primitive aesthetics: The deliberately rough texture with its earthy feel underlines the connection to original craftsmanship.

For whom?
This sculpture appeals to people who wish to make their inner strength visible – be it as a daily reminder of their own self-worth, as a gift for a new beginning, or as a powerful object for therapy rooms. It is suitable for anyone who appreciates spiritual decor with depth and understands decorative smoke-fired pottery as a medium for self-empowerment.

Handmade with intention
Each sculpture is painstakingly handcrafted, with the clay not only shaped but ritually "tested" in fire. The cracks, ash deposits, and uneven surfaces are not flaws, but rather signs of the dialogue between material and craftsmanship – a metaphor for how true self-love embraces even imperfections.

My clay sculptures and jewelry pendants are less replicas of excavated treasures than my own intuitive interpretations. I allow the creation of each piece to unfold naturally, always inspired by my knowledge of the Neo- and Paleolithic periods, as well as by my extended stay in mystical England many years ago.

Each of my manufactured pieces is 100% made by my own hands, without the use of molds, stencils, etc., and is therefore unique, which is further enhanced by the random coloring during the firing process in the fire.
My works are not glazed but receive their silky matte sheen through polishing with agate before firing, which enhances their beauty from within.
Working with clay and then firing the pieces in fire grounds me considerably - I would be very happy to share this feeling with anyone interested in my pieces.

I am happy to implement commissioned work or my own ideas for a specific piece of work, provided it is compatible with my way of working.
Feel free to contact me about this.

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Manufacturer:
The Ancient Way of Art
Michaela Saal
At Würdenwiese 7
DE 51643 Gummersbach
theancientway1912@gmail.com