A huge signed stretching stylised bird figurine, dating from 1980. It's by John Griffiths, St Agnes, Cornwall, England - he seems to have specialised in carving simplified mid century style stretching animal and bird figurines. I can't find any more information about him, but thanks to Cornish Picker online I've been able to identify him.

A lot of these are elm wood, I'm not sure if this is, but it certainly looks similar. The hardwood has a reddy teak tone, with a vivid dark grain, forming beautiful lines and darker ares. I think John may have lightly 'torched' some areas to create darker detail. See pics. It's beautifully and skillfully carved - the bird is stretching up and twisting. Lightly oiled or varnished to give a smooth tactile satin finish. Flat base with signature - hard to read, but you can make out 'J... 80 Cornwall'.

The bird is typically mid century styled - I'm unsure as what breed of bird it is, but with the short legs and long neck, he could be a cormorant. He may even be a goose. Perfect for a mid-century inspired interior, on a teak sideboard or shelf.

He's very tall - 17" or 43cm, and in very good condition. There is a chip off the end of his beak, but I feel this is hard to notice. Otherwise excellent with no marks or scratches.

Free P&P to the UK. UK only due to length.