This one of a kind gourd was created with a long snake gourd for the over coat of the Sentinel with a split gourd neck added for the sleeves. The Face, hands, foot and the lantern that she carries were carved from tagua nuts. The Tagua nut is a vegetable replacement for ivory for carving buttons, scrim shawl and of course the face. The head shows a serious face looking out over the mountainous path. There is a smaller cap carved on her head and leather to bundle her against the cold. There is a tiny copper strand around her neck with a small faceted coral bead. As you study the figure you will see that there are leather ties to hold the coat together. The detailing on the gourd surface are done with a wood burner and small tips to add shape and design patterns. With this in mind you can also see leather dye has been applied and texture was carved into the skin of the gourd with a carving tool for a different design style. The hands are supported with wire to leave them free hanging with some movement and leather is added for sleeves. The back is burned, carved and stained with a pattern resembling feathers or leaves for protection when the Sentinel is watchful in one direction and will blend in from the back. In the hand that has the lantern there is copper wire woven for the rope and a crystal center for reflective light. If you look at the base she is walking on you will notice the path carved in the wood and a foot protruding from under her coat. The scenery is accented with a crystal rock sometimes called the 'Desert Rose'. This piece is currently being shown at the New Mexico State Fair through September 24th.
