JIM EPPLER
American, b. 1958

"Raven VII B"

Black patinated bronze | signed in cast "Eppler / (c) / VII B" numbered "8 / 50" | cast executed in 2005

23" W x 9 5/8" H x 7 3/8" D

An exceedingly fine cast executed in 2005 as no. 8 of a series of 50 casts, Jim Eppler's "Raven" is an exacting model of the bird executed in life-size. The patination is a rich total black with an intense surface texture that marries modernism and technical realism. The model is signed and numbered to the underside. The "B" series was executed in 2005.

Condition: Very fine original condition. No observed flaws.

Jim Eppler is an American sculptor and painter recognized for his finely observed studies of wildlife and the natural world. His bronzes and paintings focus on movement and gesture rather than strict realism, reflecting a lifelong engagement with the behavior and character of animals.

Born in El Paso, Texas, Eppler spent his childhood sketching outdoors and observing wildlife. He later studied at Texas Tech University, earning a BFA in Studio Art, and continued developing his practice through direct study of nature. His paintings often use light to define form and atmosphere, while his bronzes capture precise moments of motion in a restrained, naturalistic style.

Beyond wildlife, Eppler is also an accomplished portrait artist and musician, with commissions for the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame, MCA Records, Mercury Records, and the National Wild Turkey Federation.

His work has been featured in Wildlife Art: 60 Contemporary Masters and Their Work and appears in public collections including the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library, Frederik Meijer Gardens, Booth Western Art Museum, National Ranching Heritage Museum, and Benson Sculpture Garden.

ref. 509PTX20E