Important Carved Gilded Eagle

The eagle’s head looking left (to its proper right), rises above the wings spread symmetrically and perpendicular to the body, with its talons at different heights clutching an ebonized rockery, resting on a rectangular base. The sculpture is accompanied by a custom triangular pedestal: H: 34.75” W: 22 7/8” D: 17”

The United States adopted the eagle for the national seal in 1782 and it quickly became the most popular patriotic motif for ship carving, architectural decoration and on decorative objects and furniture. This imposing and important work of art, however, relates as much to Roman and French Imperial eagles as to American ones. It was not intended for outdoors or architectural decoration as evidenced by its lack of ware. It may have been commissioned, as was common, by an American fire insurance company who used the eagle as a symbol of regeneration in place of the Phoenix typically used in England. Alternately, it may have been part of a lectern or pulpit. Its origins and purpose are obscure. Its quality and carving, however, are unsurpassed. Its confident grandeur and kinetic energy give it a commanding presence. Its refined carving and condition make it a compelling addition to any collection of carving, eagles, sculpture or Americana. It relates to an even larger example in the American Wing at the Metropolitan Museum of Art [MMA 59.89].

EX COLL: [Hirschl & Adler Galleries, New York]; to private collection, 1998 until the present.