The Guardians of Eternity

Two crested birds face inward above a flowering tree, their curved necks and cascading plumage forming an open enclosure. Red, green and colourless stones trace the layered feathers, each slender contour edged in gold-toned metal. Between them, branching stems carry pointed green leaves and seven flowers with contrasting faceted centres.

At the foot of the tree, a large golden, pearl-like sphere rests within a cradle of pointed leaves. Below, an oval pedestal carries a detailed architectural panorama of domes, minarets, towers, bridges and palms against a dark green ground. Openwork along the lower rim repeats a circular pattern, punctuated by green diamond-shaped accents. The composition balances the fine detail of this miniature skyline with the broad, sheltering sweep of the birds.