John Frame

Typically, in with carved pieces that do not incorporate found objects, I use Basswood. In this example, the base is Basswood. It is probably the most commonly used material use for detailed woodcarving in the United States and Europe. In England it is usually referred to as Linden in other parts of Europe as Lime or Limewood. Fine examples of carving in this medium may be found going back to at least the 15th century. The rabbit head is Jelutong, a hardwood from Malyasia. As a footnote, “Hardwood” simply means that it comes from a deciduous tree, one which drops its leaves seasonally, while “Softwoods” come from coniferous or needle bearing trees. Both classes have widely varying degrees of actual hardness. Both woods referred to above are actually quite soft and buttery to carve. The relief composition on the base is a perpetual chase, the human figure chases and attempts to hold Death at bay with a stick, but without knowing it, is relentlessly chased himself by the very thing he tries to keep away.