JOHN L. HEATWOLE (SHENANDOAH VALLEY OF VIRGINIA, 1948-2006) CARVED EAGLE PLAQUE, a bold depiction of a spread-wing eagle perched on a branch, signed "J. L. HEATWOLE / '77". Fine natural surface. 1977. 16 3/4" HOA, 30 1/2" WOA.
Excellent condition.
Provenance: From an Ohio private collection._x000D_
Purchased directly from the artist in 1979.
Catalogue Note: John L. Heatwole was an award winning wood carver, author, historian, and folklorist, who lived and worked in Bridgewater, VA for most of his life. Heatwole was a direct descendant of numerous Shenandoah Valley artisans, including potter John D. Heatwole and blacksmith Peter Wine. His work reflected childhood imagination and the folk traditions of the Shenandoah Valley. In 1991, he was the first Virginia artist and the only carver ever to be honored with a solo exhibition of his work in the U. S. Senate Rotunda on Capitol Hill. The {{Washington Post Arts Magazine}} described Heatwole as "a magical interpreter of man's need for humor, fantasy and wonder." Heatwole passed away in 2006 at the much-too-early age of 58 after a heroic battle with cancer._x000D_
The consignor of this eagle operated a craft shop next door to John Heatwole's workshop in Bridgewater during the 1970s. She and her husband became friends with Heatwole during this period. This eagle hung in Heatwole's shop and was admired by the consignor's husband. She purchased it in December, 1979 for her husband who recently passed away.

Excellent condition.