{"product_id":"kangaroo-figurine-miniature-kangaroo-kangaroo-totem-handmade-hand-crafted-downunder-in-fine-pewter-by-william-sturt","title":"Kangaroo Figurine, Miniature Kangaroo, Kangaroo Totem, Handmade, Hand Crafted, Downunder, in Fine Pewter, by William Sturt","description":"The kangaroo holds deep cultural significance in Aboriginal traditions, symbolizing strength, agility, and independence. Often seen as a guardian of the land, it represents endurance and survival. Its ability to cover vast distances in a single bound embodies perseverance and adaptability.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAs one of Australia’s most iconic animals, the kangaroo has long been an integral part of First Nations culture. For countless generations, it has played a vital role in Indigenous life, providing sustenance while also featuring in sacred rituals and Dreamtime stories.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBy the late 19th century, the kangaroo had become a recognizable emblem, appearing on products from bicycles to Billy Tea. Hunted for both food and sport, and frequently used as a decorative motif, it was officially recognized as a national symbol in 1908 when it was incorporated into Australia’s coat of arms.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis exquisite pewter kangaroo figurine, hand-cast by William Sturt, stands approximately 3 cm tall—a timeless tribute to an enduring icon.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWilliam has been working with pewter for twenty years, having first learnt the skill from a master pewter craftsman who specialised in ornate picture frames. His pewter is the highest grade available and is, of course, lead-free and nickel-free, it will not flake or rust or tarnish because no chemicals are used on it and it definitely won't give you an adverse allergic reaction. If necessary, it can be gently cleaned with detergent or soap and a soft cloth.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWhen William makes a new piece, he first carves a master, using a variety of materials such as wax or wood, then he builds a mould using his vulcaniser, which heats and crushes pure silicon until it flows around the original piece. This silicon must be left untouched until it is completely cool and a cavity will have been formed within it that is an exact copy of the shape of the hand carved master. Then the hard part begins. Tiny ducts have to be cut into the mould to allow moulten pewter to flow into each cavity, as well as other finer ducts, carefully placed to allow air to escape during the casting process. The correct placement of these ducts is crucial to a cleanly cast item.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOnce William is happy with a mould he will spend an hour or two testing and adjusting his work until he is completely satisfied. Next he begins casting using a centrifugal spin caster and the pieces produced are left to cool then are cleaned up by hand with a linishing machine which removes any roughness from the casting. The next step is to polish each piece, dry it and inspect it; solder or assemble the parts and finally box it and send it off to its lucky new owner.","brand":"Galway Pewter","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":57398735438169,"sku":"Akangaroo","price":13.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0991\/0068\/8729\/files\/il_fullxfull.2224423331_k6l9.jpg?v=1772196677","url":"https:\/\/galwaypewter.com\/products\/kangaroo-figurine-miniature-kangaroo-kangaroo-totem-handmade-hand-crafted-downunder-in-fine-pewter-by-william-sturt","provider":"Galway Pewter","version":"1.0","type":"link"}