Description
Framed design
The design is shown on 14 count Aida fabric, but you may also use evenweave or fabric with a different count. Grid Size:15.7″ x 15.7″ (220 x 220 stitches) Design Area: 14.3”x 14.3” (200x200stitches)
Techniques
Stitches required: Backstitch. Single thread for all the design. 2 skeins of black thread are needed to complete the design. The stitches may overlap for artistic purposes, but they are never fractional.
Iconography
Disclaimer: The artistic choice of assigning characters, creatures, and other elements to specific places within the design is based on creative interpretation and imagination, drawing inspiration from Arthurian lore and symbolism. The selection and placement of these elements are not historically or mythologically prescribed but rather a result of artistic expression.
KING ARTHUR
At the heart of the Arthurian Mythdala, the centerpiece encapsulates the Legend of Excalibur, inspired by Robert de Boron’s 12th-century French poem. Here, a young and fair-haired Arthur, recognized as the true heir to Uther Pendragon, resolutely pulls Excalibur from the stone. Set against the backdrop of Llannefydd church, founded in the 5th century in north Wales, the entwining of Christian and Celtic heritage is symbolized by Arthur’s cross-adorned attire and the Celtic cross on the church. This moment is a testament to the duality inherent in the legend of the sword-a story that, while rooted in the earliest accounts, includes the role of Nimue, Lady of the Lake. Arthur stands at the lake’s shore, the church reflected in the water, surrounded by leaves paying homage to the ever-present nature and the Celtic essence of the Arthurian tales. This pivotal moment becomes a catalyst, shaping the subsequent rings that unfold the tales of Camelot, Avalon, and the legendary Knights of the Round Table.
7 DAYS OF THE WEEK
The days of the week ring offers a journey through Camelot, the realm most closely connected to King Arthur. It meticulously weaves together the knightly spirit with the realm of Celtic mythology that reigned in the time. While iconic figures like Merlin, Guinevere, and Lancelot rightfully take their places, we delve deeper, drawing inspiration from Culhwch and Olwen, one of the earliest Welsh prose works that provides genuine insights into the Arthurian universe. As we traverse the days of the week, each character chosen is a testament to the intricate tapestry of Arthurian mythology, where chivalry meets legends, and the spirit of Camelot unfolds in its multifaceted glory.
Monday – Merlin: Commence the week with the legendary wizard Merlin. Monday, associated with the Moon, symbolizes intuition, mystery, and wisdom – qualities resonating with the Seer’s mystical persona. Merlin (blackbird in French) could shift into a bird, as per Didot Percival, and presumably constructed Stonehenge. A controversial figure – a demon offspring, Arthur’s teacher, a prophet – Merlin guides you to embrace the qualities needed for success throughout your week.
Tuesday – Twrch Trwyth the Boar King: Tuesday aligns with the belligerent planet Mars, harmonizing with this mythical beast who straddles the boundary between human and bestial.. In Culhwch and Olwen, he is portrayed as a king transformed into a boar due to his sins, reflecting the pagan elements in the Arthurian narrative.
Wednesday – Eagle of Gwernabwy: Linked to the planet Mercury, Wednesday emphasizes travel, communication, and messengers. The mythical Eagle of Gwernabwy, featured in Culhwch and Olwen, served as a guide and communicator. In one instance, Arthur’s messengers sought information from this creature, revered as the wisest and eldest among them.
Thursday – Diwrnach the Giant: Aligned with Jupiter, Thursday embodies expansion and growth. Drawing from Culhwch and Olwen, where even the father of the bride in the chivalrous quest was a giant, we feature Diwrnach with his cauldron at the seashore, further linking the canvas with St. Patrick and leprechauns. This choice enriches the Arthurian universe, harmonizing Christian and Celtic influences and offering parallels with the Fomorians from Irish mythology, often depicted as sea raiders.
Friday – Guinevere: Friday is associated with the planet Venus, symbolizing femininity, love, and beauty. In Arthurian legends, Guinevere, a central figure, personifies these qualities and adds a human and relational element to the narrative. The Queen’s pose, with her eyes on Arthur and her right hand outstretched, conveys a sense of longing or farewell, adding depth to her character portrayal.
Saturday – Lancelot: Saturday, associated with the planet Saturn, embodies discipline and duty. Sir Lancelot, depicted here with inspiration from Arthur Rackham’s illustration, is a paragon of chivalry. In this portrayal, Lancelot valiantly battles an unseen monster by the castle walls, protecting Camelot. However, the composition subtly hints at his forbidden love for his Queen, as the tip of his sword points at the connection between Arthur and Guinevere.
Sunday – Red Dragon of Wales: Sunday, ruled by the radiant planet Sun, bathes in its fiery allure. In the realm of Arthurian legend, dragons stand as iconic symbols, and the Red Dragon of Wales, entwined with the tales of the Welsh hero Lludd and Llefelys, concludes the week with its formidable presence. Embrace the fiery strength of the dragon as you dip into its flames, preparing to face the challenges and adventures of the week ahead.
CARDINAL POINTS
Much like the day clock featuring characters from Camelot, our journey now turns to the Cardinal Points Ring, a celestial compass adorned with the illustrious figures of Avalon. Grounded in thorough research from authentic Arthurian sources, each cardinal point represents a facet of Avalon’s rich tapestry, drawing upon centuries of storytelling and lore.As we navigate through the enchanted realm, the characters of Avalon, inspired by medieval texts like “Les Prophéties de Merlin” and Layamon’s “The Brut,” come to life, embodying timeless virtues and complexities.
NORTHEAST – Nimue (Lady of the Lake)
Nimue, the Lady of the Lake, resides in the northeast, where dawn heralds new beginnings. As the bestower of Excalibur to King Arthur, she symbolizes hope and renewal, guiding Arthur through challenging times. Her placement between the north, representing despair, and the east, symbolizing dawn and new possibilities, highlights her role as a beacon of hope in times of adversity..
EAST – The Lady of Avalon
Positioned in the east, the Lady of Avalon emerges as a formidable counterpart to Morgan le Fay, enriching the mystical realm with her intricate character. Referenced in Arthurian sources like Les Prophéties de Merlin and the Vulgate Cycle, her inclusion deepens the narrative’s complexities.Symbolizing wisdom and ambition, she introduces nuanced dynamics, reflecting the earthly conflict between West and East.
SOUTHEAST – Melusine
Melusine resides in the southeastern domain, where the fiery spirit of dragons meets the dawn of new beginnings. Born of fay lineage and steeped in mystery, her story intertwines with the legends of Avalon. Her shapeshifting abilities, allowing her to transform into various forms including that of a dragon and a nymph, blur the boundaries between human and divine. Positioned between the east and south, Melusine embodies a mixture of elements, symbolizing hope and fiery determination in the enchanted realm.
SOUTH – Argante, the Elf Queen of Avalon
Argante is celebrated for her blinding beauty and radiant allure in various medieval Arthurian texts, notably in Layamon’s “The Brut.” Positioned at the zenith, her luminous presence symbolizes her regal stature and captivating charm, enveloping the southern realm of Avalon with her radiant grace and enchanting allure.
SOUTHWEST – Ghillie Dhu
Ghillie Dhu, the guardian of Avalon’s legendary orchards, stands as a testament to the creative infusion of Celtic mythology into the Arthurian landscape. In crafting Ghillie Dhu, we draw upon the rich tapestry of Celtic folklore, where figures like the driad are revered as protectors of natural landscapes. While not originating from traditional Arthurian lore, Ghillie Dhu’s presence enriches Avalon’s narrative, offering a unique perspective that resonates with the spirit of Celtic traditions. As a guardian of sacred spaces, Ghillie Dhu ensures the prosperity and abundance of Avalon’s apple gardens, underscoring the importance of embracing diverse mythologies in shaping Arthurian universe.
WEST – Morgan
A powerful enchantress and often associated with Avalon, Morgan is a key figure in Arthurian legends. Known for her sorcery and wisdom, she symbolizes the twilight between light and darkness, mirroring the liminal space of the western horizon where day meets night. Morgan’s presence in the west reflects her association with magic and mystery, as she weaves spells and manipulates fate in the Arthurian legend.
NORTHWEST – Oberon
Oberon, the fae king, resides in the northwest, neighboring Morgan le Fay’s domain, symbolizing their familial connection in certain versions of the tale. Often depicted with an ever-full magical cup, reminiscent of the Holy Grail or a cornucopia, it represents abundance and the mystical qualities of the fae realm. Positioned in the northwest, Oberon’s presence underscores his duty to protect Avalon’s sacred apple gardens from the cold and other dangers, further solidifying his role as a guardian of the realm.
NORTH – Queen of Wasteland
The ruler of the desolate wastelands in the north, the Queen of Wasteland, once emerged from Avalon to aid Arthur in battle. Drawing inspiration from various Arthurian sources, including the Very Black Witch from Culhwch and Olwen, and Cailleach, the winter witch from Celtic myths, she symbolizes the challenges that must be overcome on the journey to Avalon.
CLOCK FACE
At the outermost circle, the design pays homage to the legendary Winchester Round Table, believed to hang in the Great Hall of Winchester Castle. The 24 knights, each bearing their coat of arms on shields, evoke the chivalric ideals of King Arthur’s court. The alternating light and dark sectors, reminiscent of the Round Table’s original scheme, offer a visual representation of the passing hours, creating a functional and symbolic connection to time.
Moving inward, the next circle features 12 Celtic Crosses, reflecting the prevailing Christian symbolism of the era. Inspired by the patriotic spirit of Arthurian Britain, these crosses adorn the clock face, each marking an hour.
Additionally, this ring unfolds a tale of knights and their exploits, showcasing three distinct scenes, each repeated four times. These scenes encapsulate the essence of Arthurian chivalry, from knights on horseback with swords ablaze embarking on noble quests to spirited tournaments and the spiritual quest for the Holy Grail.
