A Celtic Shield in Glass: The Art of Kiln Carving and Flame-Charred Oak

When I embarked on creating my latest fused glass piece, a kiln-carved Celtic shield in golden yellow set into a flame-charred oak base, I wanted to craft something that combined tradition with innovation. This piece not only celebrates Celtic heritage but also demonstrates the timeless harmony between glass and wood.

The Inspiration

The Celtic shield symbolizes strength, protection, and history. Drawing inspiration from ancient Celtic designs, I aimed to create a contemporary interpretation that still retained the traditional motifs. The choice of golden yellow for the glass added a sense of warmth and regality, while the charred oak base introduced an earthy, textured counterpoint.

The Process

1. Designing the Shield:
   The design process began with research into Celtic shield patterns. I 3d printed a shield to the size needed then had to make a negative from that , then make another positive to begin with. Motifs and symbols that reflected the rich history of Celtic artistry. Once finalized, I transferred the design to fiber paper to prepare for kiln carving.

2. Kiln Carving:
   Using plaster and silica , I carefully create the intricate Celtic design. This carving would imprint the shield’s texture onto the glass during the kiln firing. Attention to detail was critical, as the patterns needed to be precise to achieve the desired effect.

3. Choosing Golden Yellow Glass:
   For the shield, I selected a vibrant golden yellow glass. This color was chosen not only for its visual impact but also for its symbolic connection to strength and illumination. The rich hue would catch and reflect light beautifully, enhancing the intricate patterns.

4. Firing the Glass:
   The glass was placed over the kiln-carved template and fired to a temperature where it softened and took on the imprinted design. Watching the transformation in the kiln is always a moment of anticipation—seeing the patterns come to life is incredibly rewarding.

5. Creating the Flame-Charred Oak Base:
   The base of the piece was crafted from oak, a wood deeply rooted in Celtic tradition. To add contrast and depth, I flame-charred the surface, giving it a rich, textured appearance. The charring process also highlighted the natural grain of the wood, creating a striking backdrop for the golden glass shield.

6. Assembling the Piece:
   Once the glass had cooled and the oak base was ready, I carefully mounted the shield into the wood. The contrast between the luminous golden glass and the dark, charred oak created a bold and dramatic effect.

The Final Piece

The completed Celtic shield is a powerful fusion of artistry and tradition. The golden yellow glass captures light beautifully, highlighting the intricate patterns of the kiln carving, while the flame-charred oak provides a strong, grounding presence. Together, they create a piece that is both contemporary and steeped in history.

Why This Piece Matters

This shield is more than just a decorative item; it’s a tribute to Celtic heritage and the craftsmanship of fused glass art. The combination of materials and techniques reflects a balance between strength and beauty, tradition and modernity. It’s a piece that invites reflection and admiration, embodying the timeless spirit of Celtic culture.

Studio Visits Welcome

If this piece resonates with you, I’d love for you to visit my studio on the Isle of Arran. Here, you can see this Celtic shield and other creations up close, learn about the process, and even discuss a custom piece designed just for you. Reach out to arrange a visit and let’s explore the possibilities of fused glass and wood together!