Folk Carving: Swan Sleigh
20/11/2023
Cedric the Swan
The Swan Sleigh was passed on to me by a fellow carver who had prepared the wood and made a preliminary start. The wood is Tulip Wood (poplar), which is more fibrous than Lime. The characteristic dark streaks and greenish tinge add a dynamic element to the wings, like 'go-faster stripes'.
Cedric the Swan
The wood is finished with oil, sepia wood-stain and two different waxes. The white effect is produced using liming wax. The beak is the natural colour of the wood after oil and a clear wax has been applied.
Cedric travelling to his new home, November 2023
As a frequent visitor to Compton Verney I love the Folk Art section. I have admired two large swan figures there: one is a decoy, the other a gilded pub sign. Both are full of character. I hope my swan will feel at home within this tradition of stylised and large-scale British woodcarving.
