Relics of the American West: 1850-1920
Lot 2047:
Description
A mid-century modern style sculpture of a reclining seal or sea lion, hand-carved from a dense, dark hardwood—likely ironwood or walnut—with a minimalist, fluid aesthetic. The piece features a highly polished, sleek body resting atop a rugged, adze-textured “rock” base, showcasing a beautiful contrast in woodcraft techniques. Affixed to the underside is a hand-written paper note with “Santiago” and “Astoria,” possibly referring to the historic coastal arts community in Astoria, Oregon. While the provenance is informally noted, the craftsmanship reflects the high-quality nautical carvings prevalent in the Pacific Northwest during the mid-20th century. The sculpture is in good vintage condition with a rich, deep patina, though it shows natural drying cracks (checking) consistent with age along the back and neck, as well as minor surface scuffs. H 11″, W 15.5″, D 7.5″. Please see photos.
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