"Rust Ritual" Cloche/Dome by Chris Lee

In Rust Ritual, Chris Lee curates a moment of transformation through tone and texture, pairing two woodland butterflies within an acrylic dome that feels almost ceremonial in its composition. The upper specimen, Trajanus doris (Doris Longwing), stretches dramatically with deep russet and burnt orange tones framed by bold black bands. Beneath it, the mottled tawny wings of a Polygonia c-aureum (Asian Comma) echo the forest floor in dappled camouflage.

Together, they hover above a bed of bark, moss, and natural red quartz crystal clusters — a grounding base that adds warmth and a sense of mineral energy. The dome’s symmetry evokes ancient balance, like a scene caught between dusk and flame.

Specimen Identification:
Upper Butterfly: Trajanus doris (Doris Longwing)
– Range: Central and South America
– Traits: Striking coloration, symbolic of courage and warmth

Lower Butterfly: Polygonia c-aureum (Asian Comma)
– Range: East Asia
– Traits: Ragged wing edges and leaf-like patterning, masters of disguise

Display Details:
Display Type: Clear acrylic dome with cork base
Base: Real preserved moss, bark mulch, and red quartz crystal formations
Arrangement:
– Doris Longwing mounted above in strong open-wing posture
– Asian Comma nestled into the terrain, wings slightly angled for dimensionality
– Quartz crystals encircle the base like totems or ritual stones

Atmosphere: A vignette of firelit forest paths — warm, wild, and sacred in its stillness