Vintage Hand-Carved Mahogany Eagle with Shield

Presented is a beautiful hand-carved spreadwing eagle plaque. This 20th century wood eagle is carved of mahogany and handsomely polished. With its feather spread out, the eagle clutches a shield in its talons, as its head looks to its left. The clutched shield has a star carved on its chief; stripes complete the shield design. With carved detailed feathers and a dramatic expression, this stylized eagle is an interesting work of art. The relief carving is styled after the earlier work of John Bellamy, a well known folk artist made popular in the late 19th century for his stylized wooden eagles and ship carvings. True to Bellamy’s style, this eagle has a curved neck to mimic the eagle in flight and dramatic eyes. The eagle motif in décor and folk art has widely been used throughout much of US history and is brimming with meaning. Eagles in decorative and folk art became wildly popular and could be found on ordinary household items from tabletop items, to embroidery, to furniture. This deeply-rooted symbol is still relevant today and is closely tied to the idea of strength, freedom, and wisdom. CONDITION: Very good+ condition. Hand-carved wooden eagle plaque, with shield. Carved of mahogany and nicely polished. Light nicks and scratches into wood. Flat back. Dimensions: 9 1/2" H x 29 1/2" W x 3 3/4" D. Accompanied by our company's letter of authenticity.