As you can see this piece started out as a 'Y' branch joint. I have removed the one arm of the 'Y' in photo 1. This will mean that there will be end grain carving, which due to its location will be the beard area this is good news, if the end grain splits through drying it will be hidden in the hair of the beard somewhat; additionaly the end grain will colour darker than the rest which should give the bear a slightly darker and aged look.
The next photo shows the face and roughed out area for the hair and beard. there is no detail in the eyebrows, facial or head hair at this point. This shows how deep the carvings can go into the wood to get the depth of the face; the hair detailing reduces the hard step down to the forehead. 
The final piece is finished in antique oil. He is 7cm diameter at the base flowing to 4cm diameter at the top. he is 20cm tall but leans back somewhat. the small branches at the base keep the natural organic look.
This piece is off to live in the Dominican Republic with Laura and Paul Napier.
2 comments:
Great carvings Dave. There is a stack of oak and chestnut lying around in the countryside surrounding us in France. Is it any good for carving---if so I may be inspired to give it a try.
John
Hi John
Oak and Chestnut would be great. both can be quite dense when seasoned but when green as with all woods they are easily carved. Free wood from the forest is the best to use and with a very basic Swiss Army knife for under £10 and a Tom Wolf carving book you can start. those that done work out havent cost you £££ in materials. The oak and chestnut would last for Decades in the garden or a lifetime in the house.
Give it a go and share your carvings on your blog.
Regards Dave
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