Description
From mountains to plains, forests to tundra, Canada’s wilderness is home to an incredible diversity of life; it is a place of perpetual beauty, where discoveries and unexpected encounters can provide soul-stirring moments of tranquility and reflection. This fine silver set journeys north as the Reflections of Wildlife series concludes its celebration of Canada’s natural beauty, and the contemplation it inspires. Finely-detailed engraving gives the images a life-like quality while special finishing techniques enhance the reflection seen on the water’s surface.
Coin No. 1: Grizzly Bear
The reverse design by Canadian artist Maurade Baynton features a beautifully engraved wildlife portrait of a mighty grizzly bear (Ursus arctos) at the water’s edge. With the dense alpine forest filling the background behind it, the hungry bear has stepped beyond the rocky shores of a pond and into the water, sending a ripple of gentle waves across the mirror-like surface. The grizzly bear’s characteristic hump is all the more prominent as this iconic animal lowers its head and seemingly gazes at its reflection in the water, which is beautifully recreated through careful finishing techniques.
Coin No. 2: Arctic Fox
The reverse design by Canadian artist Maurade Baynton features a beautifully-engraved wildlife portrait of an Arctic fox (Vulpes lagopus) on its journey across the ice and snow of Canada’s Far North. Kept warm by its dense winter coat, the fox has an almost pensive expression as it stops at the water’s edge; there it stands, quietly hovering over its reflection in the rippled water, which is masterfully rendered through the use of careful finishing techniques.
Coin No. 3: Otter
The reverse design by Canadian artist Maurade Baynton features a beautifully-engraved wildlife portrait of a playful North American river otter (Lontra canadensis) standing at the water’s edge. The semi-aquatic mammal has ventured beyond the fallen tree trunk that delineates the grassy shoreline in the background. Straddling the small rocks, the otter curiously gazes down at its reflection in the water’s surface, which is masterfully recreated through careful finishing techniques, while its whiskers set off a ripple of soft waves. The obverse features the effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by Susanna Blunt.
A gorgeous addition to any nature, wildlife and Canadiana-themed collection, and a thoughtful gift for art appreciators and outdoor enthusiasts alike!
