This wonderfully, elaborate batik egg was made using the traditional Pysanky wax and dye process on a real blown ostrich egg, which is sealed with a coat of protective, crystal clear finish. It measures approximately 5 1/2 inches tall.

The project begins by hand sanding the egg until it is silky smooth, removing all the bumps and grooves and also reveals a deeper, chaulkier layer of the egg that will allow the dyes to take more evenly and with greater intensity.  The egg is divided into sections and the design penciled in.  The egg is dipped into the different colored dyes and the color is sealed with hot beeswax applied with tools called kistky.  Etching of the design to create a 3 dimensional feel is achieved using acetic acid (vinegar) that eats away at the shell, creating borders and depth.  The final step is to remove the wax to reveal the design and varnish the egg to protect it and give is a wonderful shine.

"Kerman Stars" is the latest installment in the "Persian Rug" series of eggs. The design features four magnificent octagonal medallions surrounded by sweeping vines and flowers.  The details are quite remarkable on this egg and a close up view is the only real way to appreciate the finer elements.   To see more of my work, please visit my website http://www.sojeo.com.