JUDE THE MAGPIE
12 x 12 inches. Oil on wood panel.
Jude the magpie is the second painting in the Familiars series.
In folklore, magpies are clever tricksters who love baubles and shiny objects-- so of course, Jude is holding a ring. Magpies are members of the Corvidae family, related to crows and ravens. They are among the most intelligent of all birds. They can use tools, solve problems, and mimic human speech!
The background represents summer-- the height of the year's strength and power. Summer is fire, fertility, and fullness of life.
The English myrtle, also called true myrtle, or Myrtus communis,blossoms are painted over silver leaf. In the Victorian language of flowers, true myrtle represents marriage and lasting fidelity. (Yes, Jude is holding a wedding ring). British royal brides often carry myrtle in their bouquet. The tradition dates back to Queen Victoria's wedding (or her eldest daughter's wedding, depending on the source). The Queen is said to have commanded that every royal bride should plant myrtle to commemorate their wedding.
This painting is oil on wood panel, painted over gold acrylic and silver leaf.