The bog oak used in these sculptors are all sourced locally from areas within the West of Ireland.
First the raw wood that is extracted from the bog, then the wood is kiln dried and the carving process begins. This step is a slow and careful process, ensuring that the final product reflects the natural shapes and grains of the wood. The piece is hand sanded through many grades of fine sand paper and various oils and waxes are applied. Finally, the wood is polished with a specially blended mix.
Dendochronology
Brendán has sent a number of samples to David Brown, of Queen’s University Belfast, for dendochronological testing. Some samples tested are confirmed as 5,800 years old, placing the bog oak in the exceptionally rare category.
Each sculpture comes with a certificate of authenticity/dendochronological dating certificate.