A little more detail…

Recycled Farthing coin

A farthing (derived from the Anglo-Saxon feorthing, a fourthling or fourth part) was a coin of England, Great Britain, and finally of the United Kingdom, worth one quarter of a penny, 1/960th of a pound sterling. Such coins were first minted in England in the 13th century, and continued to be used until 31 December 1960, when they ceased to be legal tender.

Most wrens are small and rather inconspicuous birds, except for their loud and often complex songs. Quite symbolic ! This lovely little coin looks even prettier when it has been hand cut, filed, hand carved with traditional flourish scrolls, polished. An old farthing coin given a fantastic new life as a pendant. A lovely, original pendant with a fantastic history and symbolism The wren, often diminutive in size, carries significant artistic symbolism, representing joy, renewal and cleverness. In Celtic lore, the wren’s song is seen as a message for the future and a reminder to embrace happiness.

Through the ages of time flourish designs are representative of movement, transformation, and vitality, often representing the unseen energy behind growth, beauty, and creative expression. This allows me the perfect opportunity to compliment the lovely Irish hare coin with a design which aligns with the spirit of the animal and the coin.

As decorative elements, they transform simple lines into something rich and meaningful, evoking emotions and themes that words alone cannot always capture.

Inspired by flora, the flourishes mimic curling vines and unfurling leaves. These designs symbolize the natural world’s cycles of growth, renewal, and resilience, much like a relationship that grows and matures over time. The organic, flowing lines suggest a living, breathing energy.

Using deeply engraved Flourishes I am attempting to symbolize immortality, longevity, and the abundance of nature. The ancient and widespread use of these motifs connects humanity to the enduring, timeless power of the natural world.

The carved flourishes are a prime example of “emotion in motion”. The sweeping, dynamic curves and loops can convey a range of feelings, from playful and whimsical to elegant and serious.

Symbol of British Wildlife: The wren is one of the smallest and most widespread birds in the UK. Its presence in gardens and woodlands makes it a familiar, joyful sight for many people.  Aesthetically it was a wonderful choice for a small coin.

Joy and Happiness:The wren’s cheerful song is a consistent symbol of joy and a reminder to appreciate life’s happy moments.

Renewal and Hope:In Celtic tradition, the wren is associated with renewal, particularly around the winter solstice, and the cyclical nature of life.

Cultural Representation: The wren’s choice for the farthing coin symbolizes a connection to nature and the countryside, resonating with the British public’s appreciation for wildlife. It reflects out national identity that values the natural environment.

Ingenuity and Wit:Wrens are known for their cleverness and ability to overcome challenges, often outsmarting larger birds, symbolizing resourcefulness and adaptability.

Saint Stephen.The Wren’s song is linked through time to St Stephen. St. Stephen, the first Christian martyr, is celebrated on December 26th, which is also known as St. Stephen’s Day or Boxing Day. In Ireland, the day is also associated with the “Hunting the Wren” tradition, where a wren is symbolically hunted, inspired by a legend that a wren betrayed St. Stephen’s hiding place to his enemies. St. Stephen was one of the first deacons of the early Christian church. He was known for his faith and preaching, but was ultimately stoned to death for blasphemy by the Jewish authorities in Jerusalem. The legend in Ireland connects the wren to St. Stephen’s death, stating that the bird’s chattering betrayed his hiding place, leading to his capture and execution.

Most wrens are small and rather inconspicuous birds, except for their loud and often complex songs. Quite symbolic ! This lovely little coin looks even prettier when it has been hand cut, filed and polished. An old farthing coin given a fantastic new life as a pendant. A lovely, original pendant with a fantastic history and symbolism.

Size : diameter 20 mm

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