Spirit Animal Sculpture Appraisal

Hand-Carved Wood Spirit Sculpture

This item is a hand-carved wooden sculpture, commonly known as a 'wood spirit' or 'tree spirit' carving. It is crafted from a piece of natural wood, likely a section of a log or branch, and retains some of its original bark, particularly visible at the top and along portions of the edges. The primary focus of the carving is a human-like face, characterized by deeply set, closed eyes, a prominent nose, and a long, flowing beard that extends down the length of the wood. The carving style is highly detailed, emphasizing the texture of the skin through various lines and wrinkles on the forehead, around the eyes, and along the cheeks. The beard is rendered with wavy, undulating lines, giving it a sense of movement and depth. The natural grain of the wood is prominently visible throughout the carving, contributing to its aesthetic appeal and illustrating the organic material used. The wood appears to be light to medium brown in color, with variations in tone that highlight the carved details and natural grain patterns. The finish appears to be a natural oil or wax, imbuing the wood with a subtle sheen and enhancing its inherent warmth. There are no obvious signs of significant damage such as cracks or chips, though minor wear consistent with its age and handling might be present. The craftsmanship suggests a folk art tradition, where the carver utilizes the natural form of the wood to inform the final shape of the spirit. There are no visible maker's marks or signatures in the provided images, which is common for folk art pieces. The back of the carving shows the natural, undulating surface of the wood, with clear indications of tool marks from the carving process, further solidifying its handmade nature. Given its style and commonality in folk art, it likely dates from the late 20th to early 21st century.