This is a wedding anniversary plaque for two friends of mine that will celebrate their 2oth soon. It is basswood, stained with a waterbased wallnut varnish. The design is largely W. Barton’s, with a small change for the top rosette. As I couldn’t carve the plaque in one sitting, it took about a month, carving about two hours a week (i.e. a successful application of the “subdivide and conquer” principle ;o)).
That is very nice work! The finish came out really well as well. Using a water-based coloured varnish what did you use to seal the piece first to get such consistent coloration with the basswood? The motto you used is a great sentiment. A wonderful gift for your friends.