Title
Urbanus Magnus
 
Year
2025
 
Description
Urbanus Magnus is one of the most in-depth studies of the human skull the artist has produced. This life-size skull has been carved from a particularly special piece of boxwood. Box is a very dense and durable timber found here in the UK, long valued for its hard-wearing properties. This section of wood originates from a historic landscape planted and designed by the renowned horticulturalist Capability Brown. The original planting dates back to the 18th century, making this an especially significant material to work with.
 
Knight has been able to focus the full extent of his carving skills into this monumental piece. The level of detail is astonishing. A recent visit from a leading doctor bears witness to this — they remarked, “One need only swap wood for bone, and I wouldn’t know the difference.”
The artist has said that creating a work of this scale has been a long-held ambition, and through his dedication to the art of carving he has achieved it in Urbanus Magnus. Based on Knight’s own direct anatomical observation, the piece is constructed in two parts — the skull and the jawbone. The work is signed on the base.
 
As with all of the artist’s carvings, nothing compares to holding this wonderfully tactile sculpture in your hands. It is a truly beautiful object to handle — its weight alone is remarkable.
 
Original, signed.
 
Medium
Carved English Box wood 
 
Dimensions
21cm x 15cm x 15cm
 
Delivery
Post, Courier or pick up
 
Note
If you are interested in a similar piece by the artist or would like to discuss a commission, please contact us: hello@whistleblowergallery.co.uk