This piece is an amalgamation of pyrography wire work and carving. The piece was carved in the green which accounts for the 'shakes' (splits) in the face and beard, which demonstrates that wood even when cut is a living thing. The shading is pyrography across the piece.

Merlin is 9 1/2" tall 2 1/4" diameter at the base and 3" across parallel with the forehead. He has been varnished and would stand out in the garden or in the home as a talking point.

The wood was collected from Pembrokeshire and a garden clearance and sympathising with the idea that Arthur's Camelot was in Wales. Merlin was considered to be one of the first recorded Woodwose.

In Celtic myth, the hawk was the symbol of freedom and success.

In heraldry, the hawk is the symbol of tenacity in the pursuit of an object of desire or the accomplishment of a mission. The hawk is also an emblem of fidelity, for with few exceptions, the hawk has one mate for life.

I enjoy the Celtic symbolism with the carvings which add to the mystery of the pieces. The silver plated wire is used to tie off the ends of the wood and ad some contrasting ornament; silver has a place in Celtic myth and magic.

if you want to see more photos please visit http://woodwosecarving.blogspot.com/2009/09/merlin.html