Zibellino

Today starts off the official start of the 10th IRCC! Although my Design is 1480’s, I decided to make a zibellino, which is a smidge later period. I love their cute little faces! I bought a blonde mink last year for my birthday, and have been collecting knick knacks for embellishment.

I’ll be using an air drying clay, some semi precious cabochons, and a silver bracelet to adorn my little dead friend.

I took my mink and wrapped him in plastic wrap, so I can sculpt my clay right on top of it. I started by placing one layer of clay over the mink to get a base shape for his face. I then placed the bracelet bar where the mouth would be, and placed more clay to build up the snout. I did the same for the cheek bones/eye sockets. I made some rounded triangles for the ears, and pinned them in place, behind the eye, and hugging the cheek bone. Since Antonino (isnt that a cute name?!) is a cheeky rogue, I decided to give him a pierced ear and earring.

I let him dry for a few weeks (its been so humid!), and painted him silver. I found this unpleasing, and painted over that with a copper/bronzey color. Much better!

I need to touch the paint up a little, seal it, add his earring, and permantly attach the pelt.. I'm very pleased with the progress!