Technical Specifications
| Feature | Unframed | Framed |
|---|---|---|
| Print Quality | 12-colour Giclée (Archival) | 12-colour Giclée (Archival) |
| Paper Stock | 200gsm Museum-Grade Matte | 200gsm Museum-Grade Matte |
| Frame Material | — | FSC-certified sustainable wood |
| Sustainability | 2 Trees Planted Per Order | 2 Trees Planted Per Order |
Size Guide
| Size | Metric (cm) | Imperial (in) |
|---|---|---|
| A4 | 21.0 × 29.7 | 8.3 × 11.7 |
| A3 | 29.7 × 42.0 | 11.7 × 16.5 |
| A2 | 42.0 × 59.4 | 16.5 × 23.4 |
| A1 | 59.4 × 84.1 | 23.4 × 33.1 |
Frame Colour
Black (Artist’s Choice)
Why This Works
A Black frame provides the strongest contrast to the fiery orange sky. It acts as a continuation of the dark marshland silhouettes, making the entire scene feel like a bold, theatrical stage.
The Vibe (Dramatic & Mythic)
This is the "Heroic" look. It gives the artwork a prestigious, high-end gallery finish.
Wood
Why This Works
Cancer is a sign deeply connected to nature and the "home." A Natural Wood frame complements the organic tree and reed silhouettes, grounding the intense colours with a soft, earthy warmth.
The Vibe (Warm & Organic)
This creates a "Storybook" feel, perfect for a cozy study or a child's nursery.
White
Why This Works
A White frame lightens the overall mood of the piece. It highlights the bright yellow highlights in the sunset and makes the glowing glyph feel more expansive and airy.
The Vibe (Fresh & Modern)
This creates a Graphic & Contemporary look, ideal for modern, light-filled apartments.
Artist's Nudge
To truly capture the "Tales of a Zodiac" aesthetic and honour the drama of Karkinos' sacrifice, I highly recommend the Black frame. It defines the shadows perfectly, making the central battle feel as intense as the myth itself.
Frequently Asked Questions
What inspired this specific depiction of Cancer?
I wanted to move away from the simple "crab on a beach" trope and focus on the original myth. It’s a story of loyalty—the crab didn’t fight for glory, but because its friend (the Hydra) was in trouble.
How does the "paper-cut" style look in person?
The digital layering creates a sense of physical depth. When printed on our matte paper, the sharp edges of the silhouettes look as though they have been meticulously hand-carved out of dark card.
Are the colours as vibrant as they appear on screen?
Yes. Our 12-colour Giclée process is designed to handle intense oranges and yellows without losing the subtle gradients in the "glow" of the sun and the glyph.
Is there a hidden meaning to the Hydra heads?
In the myth, the Hydra represents a challenge that keeps multiplying. For a Cancer, it signifies the overwhelming protective instinct they feel when their "circle" is threatened.
Does the print include the Cancer constellation?
Yes, if you look closely at the left side of the marshland, the stars of the Cancer constellation are subtly integrated into the sky, bridging the gap between myth and astronomy.
What is the best way to clean the frame?
We use UV-protected perspex which is best cleaned with a soft, dry microfibre cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals to maintain the archival quality of the print behind it.