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Golden Eagle Gatepost Rendered by Henry Murphy watercolor and graphite on paper overall: 43.2 x 34.7 cm (17 x 13 11/16 in.) Index of American Design 1943.8.16882 |
Object 25 of 26
Early American bird carvings were frequently used as ornaments for fences or gateposts. One such carving is this bird, which probably represents a chicken, as suggested by its head, beak, and clawed feet. It is dated 1750. After 1782, the eagle, which became the symbol of the new republic, was a frequent theme of woodcarvers and also decorated fence and gateposts.
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