Eagle

Carver unknown

England or United States, ca. 1820–50

Elm

Sewell C. Biggs bequest; 2004.494

Ever since Congress adopted the bald eagle as the country’s national symbol in 1782, eagle decorations and sculptures (pictured) have been carved in America and Europe for American consumers. Measuring 47 inches wide, this large sculpture may have been part of a matching pair and was probably carved to decorate a civic building.