Antlers as a symbol of male virility have long been a subject of folklore , magic and mythology, although it’s true that some does will grow antlers. They are used by the males as weapons to push off or fight other males that wish to mate with the females. It seems safe to say that having larger antlers might determine who fathers the next generation. Antlers are a marvel of nature as they are the only “horns” that grow fresh every year. Near season’s end an enzyme begins to work at the base of the antler and by winter the antler is easily shed, knocked loose by low tree branches and such. In spring, new antlers begin to sprout again . If you go walking in the woods be on the lookout for shed antler. If you are lucky enough to find one, circle around, you may find its mate. It would be a wonder if I found even one. This particular antler was found more than 40 years ago by my Uncle Russell , a woodsman and extraordinary gentle man by all accounts. He passed on when I was 7 , I barely knew him yet , I can remember so many wonderful things about him.It was a joy to ink this picture, thinking of him and holding the antler that he held in his hands so long ago. He loved the woods as I do now, so I feel connected to him in this way. I put into this picture many of the elements I find to be part of the strength of a forest. There are nuts to provide food. Wildflowers to fill the eyes with beauty. There are fallen leaves to tell the story of seasons passing and seed hulls that remind us; life for the forest is not over. The tree trunk is anchored firmly in the earth even as it’s branches reach the sky. The scarred shed antler tells its own story of battles fought, perhaps won. It boasts to have been alive and a part of the circle of life. The deer lived and lives on. And now, here I am . Find me.
The original is one of the larger pieces I have inked , the image is 18" x 13". It is double matted and framed in a custom frame that is an echo of the bone's texture and the color of the hazelnut leaves , both combined . It is for sale for $2750.00 . Limited edition signed & numbered prints are available in two sizes. The small print measures 10.25" x 7.5" and the large one at 15" x 11".
- small print $ 45.00
- large print $ 80.00
- notecards 5 in a package for $ 6.00
- shipping included in prices
questions? comments ? contact me at
artistdelaware@yahoo.com or leave voicemail at 302-373-7596
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