The “High Plains” display table is a commissioned pedestal for a Remington bronze sculpture, “The Stampede.” The sculpture was originally on an oval glass coffee table, and the client wanted to upgrade it with a gift to her husband. The only request is to use live edge wood and create a taller table than the current table. Beyond that, the client gave me free rein to use my artistic interpretation. With the only limitation being imagination, I set out to craft an artistic, functional rustic table.
My mind immediately went to in-stock Claro walnut wood slabs. These live edge wood slabs come from walnut groves with dead-standing trees.
Although I have several wood species that serve the purpose, why California walnut? Basically, for its shape, wood grain patterns, color tones, and the wood slab’s unique shape. The shape and wood grain reminds me of a high plains desert.
While a coffee table, the client wanted it a little taller, thus making it a centerpiece for the room. With the top set underway, I focused on the foundation of the high plains display table. It needs to carry the load and complement the table’s top.
Choosing a simple trapezoid design, I also chose to stay with Claro walnut as the base material, built using mortise and tenon joints and 3″ x 3″ material.
So pleased with the table; the clients are redoing a room and moving all of their Remington’s sculptures into one space, with this piece in the center!
My vision was to recreate the scene of a real wild west cattle drive or a stampede. Part of the tree’s root structure was left attached to the live edge wood slab, making it visually alluring and complementing the Remington bronze sculpture.
