This particular piece was inspired by a video Michael made about another one of his installations and is a culmination of an idea from long ago of building a guitar which can completely change its appearance. Michael had a vague image of what he wanted to build, but it only crystalized during the talks within the group (Projects of Three) -- and the final idea emerged as he was forging the piece and working on it. And in the end he also seized the opportunity the online format with its many video presentations offers to display such a complex piece.

The heart of the guitar is a solid piece of Rosewood with a twisted headstock. The free form intrinsic inlay work on the neck gives it a shine and a Mokume Gane styled metal plate seems to harbor old secrets and gives it a certain martial appeal. Integrated into it are all the electronics and a singular Catalin knob control. This core piece, this spine, can be dressed up in four very different 'cloaks'.

Going through the finishing and recording process Michael began to realize that what he had created was actually a court. Held by the spine are the King, the Lady, the Warrior and the Wizard.

The parts might seem disjointed, almost alien, but they all fit with the spine in their own way, each manifesting a distinct personality. The cross fade of the rotating guitar in the video enables the viewer to experience the unity of the design. The materials have natural textures and structure and come together in a harmonious quality. The aluminum cross matches all cloaks and connects them to the spine.