Vintage hand-carved wooden bighorn sheep / ram sculpture signed “DON LUALLEN” on the underside.

This is a substantial and unusually detailed wildlife carving featuring large fully curled horns, individually carved hair/fur texture, detailed facial features, black-painted hooves and extensive hand-tooled surface work throughout.

Research strongly suggests the signer is Donald R. “Don” Luallen of Wichita, Kansas, a documented woodcarver. A September 11, 1985 edition of The Hutchinson News reporting Kansas State Fair results lists Don Luallen of Wichita as 1st place winner in “Incised Country Carving,” with Rob Luallen of Wichita taking 2nd place. Donald R. Luallen's published obituary also specifically notes woodcarving among his hobbies.

The underside is hand signed/inscribed “DON LUALLEN” along with a date/number inscription. The numerals can appear to read “1889”; based on the documented lifetime and carving activity of the likely artist, I believe this may represent a date notation such as 1-8-89 / 1989 rather than the year 1889. The inscription is clearly photographed so the buyer can make their own determination.

Very good vintage condition overall with light surface wear, scratches and signs of age/use. Front right hoof has a small chip or impression where the color is different. Both prominent curled horns appear intact. Please review all photographs closely, as they are considered part of the description.

An unusual piece of Kansas-area woodcarving history and an attractive display piece for collectors of American folk art, wildlife carvings, bighorn sheep, hunting decor, Western art or regional Kansas art.