I cut the legs of this lady from powder coated steel, and then spray painted them "gold" to match the edging on the cup. I'm not generally in for painting one metal to look like another metal, but with only four legs on the ground, and so long, steel really was just the best option. I hope you can forgive me, but at least mantis's tend towards mimics, so it sorta fits. As always' everything is cut by hand with a jeweler's saw, from a pattern I made specifically to fit this particular cup.
Please note that this is a sculpture; her legs are not removeable from the cup and she isn't made for drinking. She does not actually walk (I know, I'm sad about it, too). She's an independent lady who could, perhaps, be persuaded to hold a ring, or a plant, but should be mostly staying put on a shelf. I have not secured her to her saucer, as she prefers to loom over it.
As is, she is not sanded; I don't usually sell unsanded work but, frankly, the idea of her being just a little dangerous amuses me. She is not "slice your hand" sharp, but is, perhaps "be a little careful when unwrapping" sharp. I am offering an "un-dangerfy" option if you would like her fully sanded before mailing.
This is an art object, not a toy. The legs are stronger than the cup, and are quite steady, but the whole thing is still breakable and chippable. It is, unlike some of my other sculpture work, easy to dust and not subject to moths, so can be put out on a shelf or wherever you want it, and does not require a glass case. If you decide that this piece is seasonal decor, you should be able to pack it up with no more worry than any other piece of holiday decor, just make sure to provide enough padding that she doesn't scratch your second favourite piece.
