Before the patriarchy existed (the timing of which being a much-debated topic) woman worked and fought alongside men as equal partners. Many ancient gravesites have been excavated with women buried with their weapons and other objects that prove their equal roles and contributions to the men in their communities. This strong, elaborately decorated piece stares you straight in the face and dares you to underestimate her and her role in society. She is embodied, emblazoned, armed and adorned. The embellishments in raw, unglazed clay represent her vulnerability even when dressed in her full armour. The blood red glaze speaks to the bubbling fury, so often hidden by women, and the protective nature of mothers who will fight to the death for their children and their community.