A Crown of Scarlet

About this piece

A rooster stands upright in vivid grass, its scarlet comb and golden neck feathers set against a softly blurred building and foliage. Strong sunlight reveals blue-green iridescence across its wings and raised tail, while the low viewpoint gives this small subject a commanding, watchful presence.

The story

Late August light falls brightly across the grass, catching the fine strands of the rooster’s golden plumage. He holds his head turned, one amber eye clear against the red of his face. Behind him, the building dissolves into warm peach and cool blue, leaving the sharp outline of his comb undisturbed. His dark tail rises above the green blades, a small flourish in the stillness.