A 42 inch life size carving by the late Douglas F. Hopkins of Osterville, MA. (1942-2000), exhibiting carved eyes and bill detail, carved layered feathering on wings and tail, inserted metal feathering, metal feet and legs and a copy of a letter by the artist describing the heron, his inspiration from seeing a Crowell heron at the Heritage Plantation Museum in March of 1974 and shows it was exhibited in the Society of Animal Artists in N.Y.C. in November of of1975 at the Salmagundi Club at 47th Fifth Avenue. Mr. Hopkins states that it was the star attraction at the show. Other artists showing at that time were Roger Tory Peterson, Guy Coheleach, Don Eckelberry, etc. Mr. Hopkins, who I knew personally, said that he loved the carving more than any other I have done. Mr. Hopkins was a Vietnam War veteran and survived a helicopter crash and survived with serious injuries. His love of carving gave him a new career to pursue when he returned home. In superb original paint and condition with minor wear to some feather edges.