FIREDRAKE DRAGON: MAQUETTE (Limited Edition of 12)

A hyper-realistic 1/12th scale Firedrake, sculpted with the anatomical logic and biological credibility that define Nick Bibby’s approach to imagined creatures. Every element - from bone structure to wing loading - is designed as if the dragon truly existed, capable of powered flight and natural behaviour in the real world.

Nick’s Firedrake is conceived as an evolved archosaur, drawing on the forms of pterosaurs, birds, theropods and crocodilians. The skull is lightened with avian-like internal structures, the musculature is defined for aerial hunting, and the wings follow a refined blend of pterosaur and bat mechanics. The result is a creature whose power and believability come from real anatomical logic rather than fantasy shorthand.

This male Firedrake is captured in a full threat display just before releasing fire - eyelids rolling up, the nictitating membrane beginning to close, and the throat pouch expanded with air and colour. Nick imagines its fire as a pyrophoric spray produced from a specialised gland, igniting as it hits the air; a defensive mechanism that evolved into a primary hunting tool. Every detail reflects that behaviour: the widened jaw hinge, the forward focus of the blast, and the muscular throat designed to amplify both sound and fire.

Courtship and territorial traits are also built into the form - the raised head crest, the armoured skull, and the powerful neck used in pushing contests, while the wings remain protected. Even the talons and hind claws follow the logic of a predator capable of snatching prey in mid-air or dispatching larger animals on the ground.

This Firedrake maquette is more than an imagined creature: it’s a sculptural study of evolution, behaviour and flight mechanics brought to life with extraordinary craft. A rare fusion of scientific imagination and fine sculpture, executed with precision, drama and absolute believability.

Material: Bronze
Size: :  H 30″  L 18″  W 14″
Edition: 12

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