The sea chests that I produce are authentic maritime reproductions, evolving after extensive research in the New Bedford Whaling Museum. The meticulous detail on the chest assures the owner that time and quality have gone into building the chest before the carving takes place. These sea chests are not painted boxes or mass produced overseas and sold as authentic sea chests. They are individually hand made and hand carved here in my studio on Martha's Vineyard. The Sea chest will be done in 7/8" thick Mahogany, 20" wide x 16" high x 36" long, having dovetailed corner joints. The top of the chest will have a handcarved design of the company Poinsettia, with a deep relief cut with more detail and a 3 D appearance. Plus I will relief carve the information below on the front of the sea chest. The bottom of the chest will be trimmed with 7/8" Mahogany. The Sea Chest will be signed by the artist. The beckets are made by Francesca Uranker and will clear the lid just enough to spare the knuckles. The handles on sea chests are secured through the holes in the cleats. THESE ARE DECORATIVE HANDLES AND ARE NOT FOR LIFTING OR CARRYING THE CHEST.
A Maker who has been a valued part of this community for several years.
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This Maker has consistently demonstrated excellence in craftsmanship and customer service.
I was created June 22, 1950 in Moon Run, Pennsylvania. BA in Art education from Carlow University in 1974. After college I joined two highly selective art associations in Pittsburgh, Associated Artist of Pittsburgh, and Pittsburgh Society of Artists. Married Francesca A. Hoffman 1976. I worked at Carnegie Mellon University from 1978 – 1991 and I used my art talents to restore the unique art and architecture at the University. My last project at the University was restoring the George Nakashima collection in Warner Hall. Also during this time in 1986 I received a Master’s degree from Carnegie Mellon in Business and Public Management, and Labor Relations in 87.
The handcarved heirlooms that I create are rich in history, detail and design. The deep, deliberate curves and lines left by the chisels are a statement to the quality and craftsmanship that go into each piece carved. Each piece is a collaboration between my patron and myself as we progress on the journey for each project.
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