1810s Animal Sculptures

With a wingspan of five and a half feet wide, this wooden eagle has a commanding presence. Hand-carved in France, circa 1810, the eagle was crafted by a master-level woodworker. Notice how each feather has been carved with incredible detail, showing slight separations in the barbs that make up feathers. The eagle is presented with wings displayed, as if in the midst of flight. Both legs are tucked under the body, as you might see on a gliding bird. The beak is open with a large hole that runs through to the back side, possibly indicating that at one time the eagle held something in its mouth. When Napoleon became Emperor of the French in 1804, he brought about a striking shift in artwork and architecture, embracing the styles of ancient empires...