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Purple Heart, Medal of Honour

comments (2) February 8th, 2009 in Reader's Gallery

DennisZongker Dennis Zongker, contributor
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This replica scales seven-times the original size medal. It was carved from one solid piece of PurpleHeart hardwood. This exotic wood undergoes a degree of color change over time. It begins with a dull brown when freshly cut, carved, or sanded. Within a few days it oxidizes to a violet purple. It is found in the tropical regions of Central and South America.
 
I hand carved this replica, for a war veteran. It has three layers of 23 carat gold leaf on the back and front. It also has 5 coats of clear polyurethane. The actual size of the carving is 1 3/4" thick x 7 1/2" wide x 16" long.

Design or Plan used: United States of America
posted in: Reader's Gallery, carving
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Comments (2)

DennisZongker DennisZongker writes: Hi Kmack, Thank you for you kind words. I only carve by hand. I have 60 carving knifes,I use "Pfeil" a swiss made carving gouges. And I sharpen my knifes on a "Tormek water cooled sharping system.
Posted: 9:52 am on February 9th

kmack kmack writes: Wow Dennis, this is very special. Carving purpleheart couldnt have been easy. Did you use power carving tools or chisels?
Posted: 7:12 pm on February 8th

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