All of the woods on this page have historic origins or connections to
the Founding Fathers of the United States of America

Click here: For more information about Historical Woods ~ National Treasures: History In The Making

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#447 Ark Of The Founders ~ click image to see full page

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30-11 & 28-11 Vase Form with Base
Vase Form: Tulip Poplar ~ Jefferson Era, Monticello
1.6 x 2.0 in
4.0 x 5.2 cm
Base: White Oak ~ 1854 Black Crib Dam Wood
1.5 x 0.9 in
3.9 x 2.1 cm

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25-11 Lidded Box
Sycamore ~ George Washington era
1.7 x 2.1 in
4.2 x 5.4 cm

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June 11, 2011

Statement

Wonderful, old, colorful and sometimes crotchety little pieces of wood stepped forward from the box of Historical Woods that William Jewell provided.  They became little gems that show off each wood’s individual character as well as the affects of centuries of growth and decline. 

Last night as I sat at my carving bench gazing into the night sky, the waxing moon shone through clouds that moved much like veils of the sheerest, diaphanous fabric in a breeze.  I switched off the light to better see the beauty of it.  In moments it was gone.  I returned my attention to these little turned pieces, and saw the tulip poplar vase forms in a new way.  The appearance of the wood, having pale purple and gray colors moving in a breezy way through the lighter color of poplar, looked to me much like the thin clouds that had just been veiling the moon. 

This old tulip poplar, as well as the 1854 crib dam white oak, blackened by ages spent in the water, were the woods I considered to be crotchety; but with sharp tools and a light touch, they yielded to my intent to turn something from them.  I was delighted to see the vitality of the grain and rays that appeared on the black bowl and the display stands, and I rather enjoy its roughness.

Knowing that the sycamore sample was from the first wood that William Jewell acquired when Historical Woods of America was first started, made the work on the lidded box and bowl extra special for me.  I wanted the pieces to work out well, to celebrate the beginnings of HWA.  Many thanks to William for the opportunity to work with woods that bear a great history that is related to the times and activities of the founding fathers of our country.