Cypress knees are knobs that grow up from the roots of the Cypress tree. It is not known what the function is of this natural process, but there are several theories. Some believe they serve as anchors keeping the trees sturdy in the swampy areas of Florida and Louisiana. Another theory is that they are a snorkel that provides gas exchange that oxygenates the underwater root system. Yet another theory is that they serve a role in the storage of starches. When they are cut off they grow back. The knees are boiled and the outer bark removed after they dry out. Their contorted shapes and soft wood make them my favorite to create sculptures of people by woodburning and carving into them. I let them sit out on the table and wait for them to tell me what they want to be.
Below are three examples of what the cypress knee sculptures I create can become. Please look at the pages of cypress knee sculptures that I have available in the studio now. Hurry though they go fast! They make perfect gifts for the people in your life that love hand made unique art. I have them seperated by size so that you can collect a grouping to display. Take a look!
