The Fabled Hare (A 3D Printed Ball-jointed Doll)

cults3d

A hare is not a pet but a person, a being of great intelligence and courage, with a deep connection to the natural world. These majestic creatures have long been revered for their strength and agility, and are often associated with fertility and new life. In many cultures, hares are seen as messengers between the mortal realm and the spirit world, carrying the whispers of the gods on their swift feet. Found in mythologies across the globe, the hare is a loyal companion to the divine, sometimes even taking on the form of a goddess herself. A symbol of swiftness and power, they are often called upon to convey important messages between worlds. Their association with fertility and life is evident in the way they represent the cycles of nature, from the first sprouts of spring to the final harvest of autumn. In some traditions, hares are believed to possess a deep affinity for fire, able to leap into burning fields unscathed and emerge untouched by the flames. This image has been passed down through the ages, influencing modern literature and art. As the ancient poet once wrote: "The hare runs into the fire. The hare runs into the fire. The fire, it takes her, she is not burned. The fire, it loves her, she is free..." Some have even believed that hares are shape-shifters, favored forms of witches who can take on their gentle form at will. Isobel Gowdie, a woman accused of witchcraft in the 17th century, claimed to possess this power, chanting the words: "I shall go into an hare With sorrow and sighs and great care And I shall go in the Devil's name Ay, while come home again" Of course, all of these tales are rooted in superstition, born from a misunderstanding of the hare's natural habits. But there is something mystical about these creatures, something that has captivated human imagination for centuries. The song "The Fabled Hare" by Maddy Prior beautifully captures this sense of enchantment, explaining the mystique surrounding these gentle beings and their reality. I first heard it as a child, listening to a BBC nature documentary called "The Shadow of the Hare", which sparked my lifelong fascination with hares. As a young girl, I fell in love with Kit Williams' Masquerade, a book that featured a beautiful golden hare crafted by the artist. The image stayed with me, influencing my work and inspiring me to create something truly special. That's how "The Fabled Hare" was born - a ball-jointed doll that combines my design skills with my love of clockwork automatons. This handmade doll is not made of gold or precious jewels, but I hope it will bring joy to those who own it. The Fabled Hare is a reminder of the magic that lies just beyond our everyday world, waiting to be discovered and cherished.