Medium: Carved wood
Form: Figurative sculpture
Material Finish: Polished dark wood
This sculpture captures a dramatic and intense moment in the natural world—a confrontation between an eagle and a deer. The eagle, depicted mid-flight with its wings fully extended, dominates the composition. Its outstretched feathers are meticulously carved, with a textured, scale-like detailing on the body and wings, giving a sense of motion and power.
Below the eagle, the deer is shown in a seated yet alert posture, turning its head sharply toward the attacking bird. Its facial expression conveys a mix of defiance and vulnerability, suggesting a life-or-death struggle. The muscles and contours of the deer’s body are carefully rendered, highlighting the artist’s attention to anatomy and emotion.
Behind the two animals, there’s a stylized form that resembles a tree or cloud-like rock formation, providing a backdrop that situates the encounter in a natural environment. The entire scene is mounted on a smooth, oval base that grounds the dynamic interaction and adds visual balance to the piece.
Source: Osawaru, Favour. Eagle with Deer Fighting, Wood, Private collection, Benin city