Dolmen Tree

1. Portal Dolmen, Poulnabrone (1986) – This fine dolmen is situated on The Burren, a natural rock table fractured into many fine crevices. In springtime many of these crevices contain a breathtaking microcosmos of  flora blossoming on a Lilliputian scale. This extensive table rock also platforms a number of imposing ruins, among them this dolmen, a Neolithic monument of unknown function, perhaps a burial chamber, now laid bare by centuries of erosion. The Burren is in the northwest of the County Clare, in Ireland.

2.  Bilbo and the Mathom House (2006) – This piece was conceived for A Tolkienian Mathomium and dedicated to its author Mark T. Hooker.  Back again in The Hobbit, Bilbo lends his mithril coat to a museum, the Mathom House in Michel Delving. The Mathom House is depicted in classic Hobbit-style, underground construction with round door and window and lush botanical surroundings.  Inscriptions above its door read M.D. (for Michel Delving) in two scripts. Bilbo stands beside his mithril coat and helm on display, as if posing for The Hobbiton Daily News. He has blown some fine smoke rings and is drawing pensively for the next ring.  Bilbo may be vexed by the unwanted attention,  impatient posing for the artist, or perhaps he has spotted Lobelia Sackville-Baggins approaching.  He is wishing he could disappear: for his left hand is fingering the Ring in his pocket.

3.  The Bridge of Khazad-Dûm (2006)– Gandalf battles the Balrog, a dreadful winged spirit of the underworld, on a narrow ribbon of stone arching over a fathomless abyss. The eye is drawn into the horror of the immense yawning void. Despite the valiant intentions of his companions – Aragorn  mounts the bridge despite Gimli’s caution, Boromir chafing to spring into action – Gandalf is utterly alone against a menacing paradox of shadow and flame with fiery sword and whip of many thongs.  Gandalf’s staff discharges the Secret Fire of Anor in defense, and his sword Glamdring has shattered the sword of the Balrog. His eight companions look on aghast. Men, Elf and Dwarf are in defensive or protective posture, Hobbits are  overcome or offering support. 

 The surroundings, including the massive pillars of Moria and the foreground, bear telltale scars of the Orcs’ desecration.  The observant viewer will find several surprises.