The unique look of the Toikkas 2009 bird, Raquel, is the result of a serendipitous discovery at the glass factory at Nuutajarvi. Workers noticed that specks of dirt in the mold were leaving a tracery-like pattern on the white glass. Toikka, seeing the potential in this defect, decided to incorporate it into his glass designs. The distinctive texture of Raquel is achieved by putting specks of dirt into a spiked mold, which then spread across the glass when it is removed from the mold. Light brownish markings stand out against the white body of the bird, creating a plumage-like effect. Raquel is posed as if resting on a nest or tree branch. She has a long, mottled brown and white beak and a tail to match. Her head is lifted and alert as if she were looking for something. A completely stunning and original creation by Oiva Toikka, this bird is a must-have for any Toikka collector. Measures: 8″ L x 3″ W x 4-1/2 H (20 x 8 x 11 cm). Called Raakelin Thden in Finnish, or Star of Raquel, this is the 2009 annual egg. The unique look of the annual egg is the result of a serendipitous accident at the Nuutajarvi glass factory in Finland. The workers discovered that dirt from the molds left brown markings on the glass, marring the surface. Where the workers saw fault, Toikka saw opportunity. He decided to make these mysterious looking markings a part of his glass creations. The pattern on the 2009 annual egg is achieved by placing flecks of dirt into a spikey mold. When the glass was removed from the mold, the dirt would run across the surface, leaving a delicate design. Beautiful and unusual, this egg is a truly original Toikka piece that you will treasure for years to come. Only 750 were produced, each num. 5″ H x 3-1/2″ Diameter (13 x 9 cm). Toikka Nuutajärvi 2009 529/750. Yes, Limited to 750. Set includes Annual Bird And Egg 2009.