In 1994, Dennis was approached by a private
collector to assist in the restoration of a lost William Rush scultpure. The scultpure was a figurehead from a trading vessel and depicted a Native American offering to trade an animal pelt. Working in
conjunction with the Smithsonian Institute, the sculpture was authenticated and the orginal design confirmed (the figurehead had been in peices, some of which had been lost). Dennis' technique of developing
a matching clay armature was instrumental in determining the original design. His instincts and experience as a carver helped solve the mysteries of arm position and posture. A full scale clay was contructed
and molded by Dennis for reference in a future full restoration. The restoration has been covered by both National Geographic
Magazine and The Magazine Antiques. |
