This piece was made for a lover of Australian birds of prey. Growing up near a river, the client revered the white bellied sea eagle as a creature of both power and majestic grace. Soaring high in the sky above coastal waterways, it gracefully descends gliding in to swoop and hook its unsuspecting prey.
Here, we see the sea eagle with its wings raised in mid flight and talons slightly lowered. The power of the creature is felt in the mid flight downward wing beat, while its legendary hunting prowess is featured in the sharp, fish hook talons. The design captures perfectly everything the client sees in this magnificent bird. The white under belly depicts its name sake. Its under wing of black and white feathers contrasts its outer wing greys. Note the distinguished pinion feathers on each wing. But its bold black eye is prominent to depict the birds strong sense of sight to see prey from elevated heights and distances.
The Australian one dollar coin is symbolic of the wallets purpose. The coin symbolizes wealth, not only due to its gold colouring, but because within the piece they will always have money. The selection of the Australian coin is their love and pride to be Australian. The kangaroo’s enhance this symbolism as the national Australian emblem, chosen for the fact they are only able to move forward. The inclusion of the Australian one dollar coin for the client is symbolic on many levels.
The wallet is carved from Australian cow hide and finished with a dyed brown background, lifting and enriching the colour’s of both the sea eagle and the coin. The detail is framed with hand stitched lacing of kangaroo leather. All of these characteristics again emphasize the unique qualities of the Australian craftsmanship and artistry in this piece.