Commission – Statue of a Falcon for a Gift

Commission of a  Statue of a Famous Species of Bird.

Accuracy in Detail

Joel was selected for this commission because of her sound reputation as a sculptor. In particular for her attention to detail and accuracy of animal form and type. In view of this Joel was contacted and commissioned early in 2025 and asked to make a life sized portrait of a Female Gyr Falcon.

She began the project by hearing the aims and hopes of the client and further, about the purposes and destination of the finished statue and its meaning. This commission was to be a special gift for a special friend of the client.

Next came research with an expert English falconer and breeder of falcons. His birds include male and female Gyr falcons.. Following on from this first contact and discussions, Joel organised visits to the falconry to take photographs and learn the key traits of this bird species.

‘‘I am familiar with Kestrels and even a little knowledge of the Peregrine, but this project needed extra research into falcon skeletal structure. Also important are the distinctive attributes of this species, which is the largest falcon in the world’.

Confidence in the Process

‘Following my research and site visit came the making of the armature and the start of the development of the clay sculpture.’

A fuller explanation and images of all the stages of this process can be seen at The Marvellous Gyr

This is an example of the type of blog Joel keeps, so that clients can see and follow all the work involved, as well as give feedback during the process. Moreover this is particularly important for overseas clients and where there are several people involved in project oversight.

One example of a bird sculpture made for a client, with all the details of a species, the Gyr Falcon

Finish and Peace of Mind

Continuing months of work follow, with the artist giving attention down to the finest details – textures on the feathers and scales on the feet. In addition mindful of the advice of the falconer, the very distinctive shape of the beak is achieved.

Without delay the client came to see and check the clay sculpture.

The client is amazed and delighted.

Next Joel readied the clay sculpture to be safely transported to the specialist mould maker. In order that stage of the process could be followed through.

The Complex Skills of Casting Bronze Sculpture

Most important, the involvement of specialists all through the project ensures safety, reliability and details on the final sculpture. Once the complex mould and backing case was fully constructed, it is delivered to the foundry and prepared for the wax.

As soon as a good wax was achieved it was checked and worked on by Joel before going on through the long foundry process to be cast in Bronze.

Then the form and details are thoroughly instated and checked and finished by Joel . Finally the bronze Gyr Falcon Sculpture is prepared for patination.

We next find out the final processes as the bronze Gyr Falcon sculpture is prepared as a gift for the friend of the client.

PLEASE CONTACT JOEL TO DISCUSS YOUR OWN COMMISSION IDEAS