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Show Fig. 58 Eagle. Richfield. Ralph Ramsay. Hardwood, carved. Ca. 1875. H: 28.75 cm. W: 107.5 cm. D: 20 cm. Collection of DUP, Salt Lake City. Although the Mormons favored the beehive as a symbol, American eagles were sometimes used to demonstrate their loyalty to the United States. Most of these eagles were used decoratively on small objects such as drums and quilts. The largest eagle was carved by English turner and carver Ralph Ramsay. Measuring eleven feet from wing tip to wing tip, it surmounted Eagle Gate, the entrance to Brigham Young's estate. This smaller eagle adorned the parlor of Ramsay's home in Richfield. Fig. 59 Frame. Richfield. Ralph Ramsay. Softwood, painted. Ca. 1875. H: 43.75 cm. W: 36.25 cm. Collection of Melissa Cluff, Richfield. Ralph Ramsay's accounts show that he turned innumerable sets of chair and table legs, posts and knobs for beds, and spools for factories. For special customers he carved Victorian hall trees and picture frames. This simple picture frame decorated with turned corner medallions was made for his family. 63 |