Unique jigsaw puzzles as varied as the individual for whom they are crafted for
I am proud to announce the completion of three new jigsaw puzzles. The images depict Chinese rank badges. Christie’s auction house describes rank badges as follows, “The Chinese tradition of wearing rank badges also known as Mandarin squares, to demonstrate civil, military or imperial rank began in 1391 during the Ming Dynasty (1368 - 1644) and continued throughout the Qing Dynasty. These insignias were sewn onto or woven into the wearer’s garments to indicate their rank. Civil officials wore insignias with different bird species corresponding to their rank, while animals denoted military officers. Court attire was regulated by imperial decrees.”
The images for my puzzles have been printed directly onto my specially prepared mahogany plywood substrate utilizing my “pigmented ink transfer process”. The transfer of the image onto the plywood surface is literally a work of art. The colors and fine detail realized are both rich and vibrant. The process is quite laborious, but well worth the time.
My valued customer who ordered these jigsaw puzzles and now has them in her collection wrote the following. “ I was finally able to do the puzzle tonight, and wow! It was well worth the wait. It was very fun to build and I love the surprise Chinese character. Every element was executed perfectly, and the end product is stunning. I have told my family many times that the craftsmanship and quality of your puzzles is above all others. You are also fun to work with in the creative process that goes into planning a custom puzzle. I will have to work on finding our next project”.
I now offer exquisite, linen wrapped boxes with the silhouette of my Portuguese Water Dog Bogart debossed on the front cover. My boxes are custom made by Mullenberg Designs, a world renowned box maker for museums, fine art galleries, and artists. Quite frankly, my boxes are as fine as they get. A perfect companion for my heirloom jigsaw puzzles.
Talk to me about your next project! I can be reached at my studio: 508-314-4561 or email me at Bogpuzzle@gmail.com
Peacock
14” X 14”, approximately 325 pieces
The Chinese rank badge titled “Peacock” features a raised Peacock and an enlarged covert consisting of 11 integral puzzle pieces. Beneath the Peacock is a secondary puzzle constructed from 1/16” thick solid figured maple. A Chinese character cut from a piece of ebony can be found hiding below the Peacock. To test my cutting skills, I have created a rank badge with an interlocking clasp cut out of copper. A true challenge for a scroll saw blade no thicker than a horse hair.
Dragon
16” in diameter: Approximately 300 pieces
The third in a series of Chinese rank badges has been cut in half and is held together with two interlocking clasps, beautifully sculpted and cut from a sheet of copper. The dragon and red- colored bats are raised elements which add to the uniqueness of this puzzle. The combination of symmetry and an irregular edge is sure to confound the most experienced jigsaw puzzle aficionado.
Qilin
14” x 14": Approximately 325 pieces
Qilin is a legendary creature which appears in Chinese mythology, and signifies goodwill, benevolence, gentleness and integrity. The Qilin is kind towards all living beings. This Chinese rank badge incorporates a raised dragon-like figure elevated above the main puzzle. Located beneath the Qilin is a secondary puzzle constructed from1/16” solid maple burl wood. A Chinese character hand cut from a sheet of copper is a hidden gem just waiting to be discovered. Like all my jigsaw puzzles, I have used my “pigmented ink transfer process” when applying this mage to my mahogany substrate. The artwork and design is extraordinary, the colors rich and vibrant. Quite simply, as good as it gets!
My new exquisite jigsaw puzzle box
What better way to store your Bogarts Wooden Jigsaw Puzzle than in my new, linen lined box with the silhouette of Bogart debossed in silver on its cover. I teamed up with Mullenberg Designs to create what I think is the finest box available. Mullenberg Designs is a world renowned box maker supplying custom made boxes and portfolios for museums, art galleries, and artists throughout the world. The fit, the ruggedness, and the overall appearance is sure to impress. Quite frankly, they don’t get better than this.