Finished!

It seems like I have been working on it for forever, but then again not! I have kept careful track of hours spent and beads used (of coarse!), and will get that info on here shortly~ I will add it to the bottom of the post after I double check the tally. After making the wooden case, I started the bead work on the 27th of April, 2014~ so just 4 months have passed~ not long at all really

I am very pleased with the results, and may just have to make another one~ I am in love with the padded lid and all the stump work elements~  I had great fun making the King's crown

There are a variety of techniques used on the case, all of which are executed in antique glass beads on a dutchess silk satin ground

I had thought to perhaps bead the frieze underneath...husband says absolutely not~ "just be done " he said today....but I am still mulling the thought~ it wouldn't take long, and I already have decided on putting my motto there....but I need to measure the remaining antique silver trim I used to see if I have enough of it left, that will be the deciding factor

The lid could tilt back a little bit more to my liking, but I overstuffed the lid so that brought it forward a bit~  its really heavy too, weighing it is on my list!

I used all antique beads in all different sizes and materials~ from tiny glass beads less than half millimeter in diameter, to real pearls, tourmaline, 14K & 18K gold, silver and bone

The King must have real bling of coarse! His scepter and crown are made with 14k & 18k gold, real pearls, and green tourmaline

Ladye holds a red rose he has just given her

Hiding little clues to the maker is always fun~ there are several little things hidden through out  the panel, my Diamond K Trademark of coarse, and here on Ladye's skirt, my initials and the year. Pictures just don't capture the feel of it though~ so I made a little video of it~ hope you enjoy!