Lui Hai Sculpture
Kim Gillespie was commissioned to design this work of art with several elements in mind. The legend of Liu Hai incorporating the terrapin turtle (the mascot of the University of Maryland). Liu Hai is a very important Chinese deity who represents prosperity and wealth. He was a Minister and an alchemist in China in the 10th century who became friend of a three legged toad. The three legged toad is part of the Liu Hai symbol and always accompanies him in any depicture. According to the story, the three legged toad and Liu Hai became great friends, the toad was Liu Hai's pet and he had it next to him every where he would go. The toad blessed Liu Hai and gave him golden coins. Liu Hai, the three legged toad and the golden coins are Chinese tradition. The Terrapin turtle represents the University of Maryland. scroll left/right for more images
click images for a larger views Hand carved wax of Lui Hai Maryland University's Mascot - Terrapin Turtle hand carved in wax Newly cast: silver cape, gold hands, feet and head of Lui Hai Lui Hai's robe after separating the hand carved wax and casting the robe in silver Magic Three-Legged Frog cast in 14k gold Lui Hai in gold with diamond eyes Product before finishing and adding chain with golden coins  Hand carved wax of Lui Hai • Gallery 1 • Gallery 2 • Gallery 3 • Gallery 4 • Art Gallery • | 
