Cliffhaven Sell-Sword // Cliffhaven Sell-Sword

The Cliffhaven Sell-Sword card from the Zendikar Rising Art Series was released in 2020 as part of a specialized subset of Magic: The Gathering. These cards were designed to highlight the high-fidelity illustration work found within the Zendikar Rising expansion, functioning primarily as collectible keepsakes rather than playable game pieces. They were distributed in collector boosters, catering specifically to fans who appreciate the aesthetic depth of the game's fantasy environments.

The illustration for this piece was created by artist Igor Kieryluk, whose work is a staple of modern fantasy trading card design. Kieryluk was tasked with capturing the rugged, survivalist aesthetic characteristic of the Zendikar plane, emphasizing the character's tactical gear and the atmospheric lighting of the region. Upon release, the set was well received by the community for providing a wider canvas to showcase the intricate, atmospheric details of the plane's unique Kor civilization.