Beardmore, Ontario. 1987. Painted wood, plywood. Wire. Some of Ewald Rentz's best work goes beyond simple representation to offer an interesting narative. This piece depicts a mouse curiously overlooking a woodpecker pecking at his home. Signed "E. B. R." and dated "1987" on underside of base. 34.5" x 10.75" x 8.25". The Marty Osler Collection. Ewald Rentz (1908-1995) was born in North Dakota, but grew up in Manitoba before settling in Beadmore, Ontario. A man of many trades, Rentz worked throughout his lifetime as a lumberjack, prospector, cook and a barber. During his time as a prospector, Rentz would collect unusual roots, fungus and branches which he would use to create his whimsical, often humorous, sculptures. He would 'coax the hidden forms out of the wood', turning discarded materials into intricate carvings depicting people and animals such as bellhops, matadors and mermaids. His works are renowned amongst Canadian folk art collectors and can be found on permanent display at the Canadian Museum of Civilization and in many collections across North America.

Good condition.