Summer Warden Tree

RICHARD KENNEDY

Material and Technique
Cherry, Stone Plinth
Lathe Turned, Carved
6.5” H x 9.5 “ W x 9” D

About The Work
The warden tree relates to an historic Viking legend. On the death of an important Viking chief once interred in the barrow a tree would be planted on top. It's job was to ward off evil spirits and protect the body and possessions inside. Every year a festival was held where ale was poured on the roots of the tree as an offering to the gods to maintain their protection. The piece represents this with the tree placed upon a rock found on the beach in Argyll, weathered by the sea once sailed by the Scandinavian marauders. The piece is turned on the lather and the piercing is done freehand using a tiny milling burr.





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