Cultural

Sculpture

The lack of oxygen and the acidity in bogs prevent the decay of many materials including wood. Timber from trees, which were preserved in the peat for thousands of years, has been used for a wide variety of purposes. In the 19th century in Ireland much of the native woodland had been felled, so the bogs were a valuable source of timber. The wood was used for roof timbers in houses, making furniture, and a whole variety of wooden vessels. Bog oak which is usually black was also used to make small items such as smoking pipes.

While there are still a small amount of bog timber being used to make furniture the most popular use is for the creation of wood sculptures.	Cloud sculpture by Michael Casey
A number of artists throughout Ireland have specialised in the carving or sculpting of bog timbers. Michael Casey in Co Longford has been sculpting bog oak, pine and yew for over 40 years.	Michael Casey at work on a sculpture

He has produced many wonderful and pieces including the centrepiece in the Ceide Feilds Visitor Centre.

If you require further information about bog oak sculpture please visit www.bogwood.net