The beginnings of the ram head

The heads nearing completion.  Note the ring under the bull's neck.

Having plenty of photographs to work from is a great help for a project such as this mantel leg, a scale model is even better.  Still, many details must be interpreted by the carver as the work progresses.

Here a full size mock-up of the fireplace and wall ensures that the mantel will fit and the installation will be successful.  Being for an older home, even the slight slope of the floor is built into this mock-up.

Testing the fit of the frame parts.