Expansive carved beam paneling

Edgar Miller
1946
Carved redwood

Miller's work is so fundamentally universal in his approach to incorporating different artistic and design styles and influences. But oftentimes it's difficult to identify or categorize pieces by Miller, such as in the case of this expansive carved beam, which seems to reference Southeast Asian influences. The piece radiates a dynamic energy. This beam carved from redwood fetches all kinds of animal forms; from deer to wolves frolicking along in an almost hunt-like movement.

Like much Miller's wood work, this piece was likely executed entirely extemporaneously, direct from the artists hand, with little to no pre-designed sketching to work off of. This piece also provides a function: covering a large, steel I-beam which spans the entire north-south axis of the home.