Shield Weevil by Nik Burns, Walbut Burr, Steel, Wood, 76cm high by 39cm wide by 24cm deep, Other sculpture
This piece by Nik Burns is a walnut burr wood and bronze sculpture it depicts a shield weevil perched atop a leaf, mounted on a circular wooden base.
The beetle rests in a neutral pose, its legs gripping the leaf while its body sits along the spine. Positioned near the tip of the leaf, the weevil appears large in scale but remains balanced within the composition. Polished bronze highlights the insect’s body, creating a lighter tone, while the shell shows a rich, darker brown. This contrast emphasizes the natural forms of the beetle and draws the eye to its sculpted details.
The leaf itself is upright at a slight angle, its shape and central vein clearly defined while retaining simplicity. The minimal detailing ensures the focus stays on the weevil while still evoking the essence of the leaf. The bronze retains its natural colour, adding warmth and texture to the piece.
The sculpture rests on a single circular wooden base, grounding the work and complementing the organic materials. The combination of polished and natural bronze with the rich walnut burr adds depth and visual interest.
Shield Weevil celebrates the elegance of scale and form. Burns captures the delicate balance between insect and leaf, emphasizing posture, texture, and proportion. The work invites close inspection while maintaining a striking presence, transforming simple elements into a compelling and detailed sculptural study.
