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The creation of this sculpture was a project that spanned about ten years from its beginnings to the finish.



The majestic Bald Eagles and Golden Eagles frequent the Upper South Platte River near our home to hunt, fish, and nest in the rugged cliffs.



This was born observing and enjoying their presence, taking photographs, Merrilyn's sketches, and paintings. She had come to me numerous times with her ideas of doing this work. She did not want to do this in clay or wax to become a bronze. Her vision was to make it from solid wood. From her descriptions and sketches, the dimensions of the finished size caused major considerations for long term durability and workability of the medium. My only involvement was what a proper and best suited wood to use could be.



After many consultations and comparison of materials, the decision was to use solid aged and seasoned opposed grain Douglas Fir to minimize the possibility of wood grain cracking for a very long time. Finally, with her urging, patience, and perseverance; the basic form arrived at her studio. The carving had began.



Days passed into months as the Eagle emerged. It excited me to see her bring forth, hidden from view within the wood, the rugged outlines of the perched eagle with wings spread. I watched as she disclosed taut body muscle and control that is the magnificent bird of prey landing in precise balance that instant just before they fold their wings in majestic pride.



When you watch a project like this in progress, there comes that time when one feels you will never hear the announcement that it is finished. The work was kept draped most of the time that I was present at the studio and I could only glimpse it now and then.



One evening during dinner she casually said, "I finished the Eagle today". I could not wait until we finished eating for the unveiling in the studio. I never expected the intricately detailed finish work that makes this Eagle so unique.



Finished, His size exceeds a 40-inch Wing Span and stands a total of 19.5-inches Tall, and 13-inches in Depth. His base is approximately 3.25-inches in Height by 10-inches Diameter.



The Eagle is permanently mounted to the base made of solid Kentucky Walnut that was harvested many years ago and stored to season for furniture manufacture. He has a custom fitted carrying-shipping crate for transport to and from the various shows and exhibitions that He has been to over the past few years.



Although this is the only one of its size and kind she ever intends to do, Merrilyn has finally agreed to offer "The American Bald Eagle" sculpture for sale. She has stipulated, however; that any potential buyers do register an affidavit of intended display and preservation with no release of copyright by the artist to modify in any way or to dismantle for bronzing. The sculpture is to remain an original.