Wood Carved Eagle Sculpture - SOLD
Wilhelm Schimmel (1840-1890), Carlisle, Pennsylvania, c. 1890
Carved and gessoed pine with original polychrome paint
Height 5 inches, wing span 8 inches

Schimmel is recognized today as one of this country's best and most famous folk carvers. Shortly after the Civil War, he emigrated from Germany to Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, where he pursued a transient and turbulent lifestyle. He would binge drink for days at a stretch. His spontaneously created carvings, which he once had given away in exchange for liquor or a place to sleep, are now considered masterpieces of American folk sculpture. The liveliness, sensitivity, and precision of his carvings contrast sharply with his outwardly rough nature. Schimmel's works are iconic, cherished contributions to the canon of American folk art.

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