Gwithyas A’n Downder "Guardian of the Depths"

Diameter: 25 cm x 13 cm
Finish: Milk paint, copper sheet, and flaxseed oil
Material: Oak with hand-wrought copper details

This striking vessel holds the drama of the Cornish landscape within its form. Its deep blue-green exterior, painted with milk paint, mirrors the ocean’s tempestuous depths, while its carved interior recalls the ancient scars left by tribes mining copper from the earth thousands of years ago.

The hand-wrought copper handles, fixed with boat nails and peened roves, are a nod to Cornwall’s maritime legacy. A spectacular repair with patinated copper sheet—aged in seawater—flows over the crack like molten ore, embracing the imperfections of the wood with grace and strength.

Turned and left to dry, the vessel’s exterior warped beautifully, following the natural rhythms of the oak, while the flaxseed oil finish enhances its tactile allure. A true "Guardian of the Depths," this piece is both timeless and alive, celebrating Cornwall’s rugged beauty and enduring spirit.