AMerican Kestrel

As a subject, the kestrel presents a significant but pleasurable challenge for a wood-carver. The colouration -- subtle in some respects, bold in others -- is so important that accurate painiting is absolutely key to success. But the bird's pose also has to be convincing if the proper "predatory attitude" is going to be captured. I hope I've achieved both with this carving. The kestrel and base are entirely hand-made and hand-painted, and firmly secured together with brass rods (extensions of the legs) deeply embedded into both. The bird is life-size and fully detailed and textured. Including base, it stands 13" high, 4.5" wide, and 4" deep.