Diorama of Desert Scene, with Catalina Mountains, ca. 1940s/50's
Desert scene in relief (Diorama) is made entirely by hand. The background is pastel work and the foreground is finished in oil. The representation of the different types of cacti is Real Vegetation gathered from the desert. This is dried and finished in oil colors. The Giant Cactus (saguaro) is molded of high-grade modeling clay over a heavy wire frame which holds the limbs securely.
Different types of Cacti represented are: Giant Cactus, Ocatillo (red tips), Barrel Cactus, Sage Brush, Yucca (white blossoms), and Cholla Cactus.
The frame is made of seasoned wood from the Giant (Sahuaro) Cactus.
Homecrafters was a non-profit corporation employing only handicapped people.
Measurements: diorama is 11 1/4" wide, 5 1/2" tall, approximately 1 3/4" deep; frame is 13 1/2" wide by 7 1/2" tall.