The Endless Mosaic

The main tunnel that leads from the surface to the Great Hall of the Shiningstone Stonghold is home to an ongoing artwork that is added to on numerous occasions through the year by every resident.

Manufacturing process

In contrast to the specialised craftsmanship of much of Dwarven expertise, most manufacturing of the tiles is carried out by children as entertainment. Before they learn metalwork they are taught how to mix minerals and dyes, how to work around a heat source and patience and industriousness by tilemaking. Once they have learned the basics of the relatively simple task, they will to produce myriad colourful tiles perfecting their skills.

Significance

Most events that involve the whole stronghold (from new-years celebrations to the funeral of the head of a clan) will include an expansion of the mosaic. An artist will mark out a design appropriate for the occasion and each resident will come with a tile to fix in place. The tiles are typically brightly coloured with a glossy glaze and a few inches across. From the youngest to the oldest, nativeborn dwarf or distant visitor, every person in the stronghold will be invited to join in. If there should happen to be prisoners in the stronghold, they will be brought out under guard and provided with a tile for them to add if they choose.
A few notable scenes depicted:
The founding of the stronghold by the Brightbeard, Tallspear and Wroughtnose Clans. A dwarf from each clan is shown swinging a pick at a single rock, breaking it down ready for transport out by their waiting families.
The Battle of the Flying Greenbloods shows creatures like Orcs, but mounted on strange flying beasts. Dwarves with spears and shields at the ready guard a wagon bringing supplies to the young stronghold.
The arrival of the Copperpot Clan. The scene suggests that they were very welcome due to their culinary contributions!

Rarity

Unique

Dimensions

Easily two thousand square feet and still growing

Base Price

Priceless