Running Horse Weathervane
Commissioned extra large horse weathervane to replace a lost weathervane on customers 1880’s carriage shed. The large piece was proportioned to be set atop a dormer on the nearly 40ft peak. Made from flat sheet hammered into form by hand. The figure stands about 23 inches tall and is 46 inches wide. The arrow spans 64 inches. The project reused the existing antique directionals and was inspired by craftsmen designs of the period. The vane rotates on a bearing supported by a 3/4 inch diameter steel rod. Its built to withstand a lifetime of New England weather.
The weathervane in motion
The form is begins to take form from a flat sheet by hammering over a leather bag filled with sand, wood, and rubber blocks.
The rough form is smoothed by hammering over a variety of metal blocks.
Details are added to the head
The two halves are interlocked for strength and fitted together carefully as the piece is formed.
The support rod and tail have been fitted and the soldering of the halves together has begun.
The mane is soldered into place.
The figure is completed and ready to have the arrow fitted.
The vane with the arrows and directionals mocked up.
Another view of the completed weathervane.