Dusty Rose Trail of Tears Sculpture

The wood bowl, reimagined: turned maple is carved to resemble woven and beaded basketry inspired by the rich artistic traditions of Native American cultures.

When native Cherokee were driven from their ancestral home in Georgia to Oklahoma reservations, a journey known as the Trail of Tears, tribal leaders prayed for a sign to strengthen their people. Legend holds that soon after, the blood of braves and the tears of mothers turned into golden roses as they fell to the dusty, windswept ground. Today, a wild, four-petal dusty rose still grows along the trail. The artist honors the seven Cherokee clans and the memory of the Trail of Tears by carving a four-petal rose accented by the suggestion of blowing wind and tear drops.

To create the piece, a block of sugar maple is turned on a lathe. Spokes and rings are then individually carved. Following a resting period, the design is burned onto the wood using 1/8" straight lines, then colored with hand-applied India inks.

Ideal as a centerpiece, tabletop sculpture, or wall hanging. Wall hanging is very easy, hanger included with purchase. Not food safe. Each piece is unique with some variations.