| Description |
Jim E. Hazeley (1934-2013)
Lancaster, PA c. 1987
14.75" tall scene | 14" long | 11" deep
Wood, Metal, Glass
A distinguished bird carver from Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Hazeley is renowned for his lifelike representations of avian species. Beginning his carving journey in 1981, Hazeley specialized in decorative birds, earning widespread admiration for his meticulous attention to detail and realism. Eventually earning the right to compete in the coveted Masters Class at the Ward Foundation's World Championship Wildfowl Carving Contest, truly the highest class of carving in the world.
A native of Philadelphia, Hazeley pursued higher education at the University of Pennsylvania and the University of Florida. His service in the U.S. Navy during the Korean conflict further enriched his life experiences.
Carved from tupelo, this large singular displaying grouse showcases Jim's world class carving, his understanding of the bird, its natural surroundings, and his artistic vision to highlight them all. A mountainous bird, native to the American and Canadian rockies, the blossoming scene is of a high elevation flower native to the birds natural range, the Stemless Easter Daisey, an early flowering plant that would be in flower about the same time as the Grouse's mating season. The simple floral scene is scratch created from metal wire and sheet. The large displaying bird is plush with blooming feathers creating a highly detailed fan, dropped wings, breast, and air sacks. The underside of the base is signed and dated by the carver. Interestingly, at the time this bird was carved two similar species, the Dusky Grouse and Sooty Grouse, were believed to be the same species under the name "Blue" Grouse, which is why this piece is titled Blue Grouse.
A defining feature that sets apart Ward World Champion competition carvers is the complete talent required to create every aspect of the bird. The only aspect of the creation that can be manufactured by anything other than the carver, are the eyes. Every other aspect must be made from scratch.
Condition: Very good and original with a small feather chip repair and right toe repair, all on non-displaying side.
Provenance:
Private collection New Jersey acquired directly from the artist
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