Allow me to introduce myself.  My name is Dr. James B. Mense and I hold a BS degree in Fisheries and Wildlife from Iowa State University, an MS in Zoology from the University of Oklahoma, and a PhD in Fisheries and Wildlife from Michigan State University.  It was while studying in Michigan that I began carving with inspiration from Dr. Miles Pirnie, World Champions Jim Foote and Larry Hayden, and I won my first award in 1968.  Since then I have earned well over 100 awards, some in each of the last six decades, with six Best of Shows, in regional, national and international competitions including the Ward World Championships.

I began carving professionally in 1982 and my carvings can now be found in collections throughout the world.  In 1985 I was Commissioned by Mr. Peter Huizenga to carve a complete set of the ducks of North America, which I finally completed in 2001.  This involved carving a male and female of each of 29 species of waterfowl.  Peter added a room to his home primarily to house this collection.  I am forever in his debt for providing me this opportunity to practice my art.

I began selling through participation in Art Festivals, but since 1985 I have sold exclusively through several Galleries.  A number of years ago I took a deep breath and decided to try selling my carvings directly through Ebay.  Internet sales continue to increase while brick and mortar retail sales are decreasing.  The Gallery markup on my carvings continued to increase in the face of this internet competition, but by offering my carvings directly to collectors through Ebay, I can reduce the price significantly.

I hope you will take a look at my other carvings as they become available on Ebay and that you will like what you see.  Every item listed was designed and entirely hand made and painted by me.  Be patient!  I am 80 years old now and only complete a couple of carvings each year.  Any comments you have would be appreciated and if you have something special in mind, I will accept commissions provided I feel I have adequate knowledge and ability to successfully complete the project.  Thank you for your time!

I carved this Wood Duck drake in 1972 and it placed second at the Midwest Decoy Contest held at Pt. Mouille, MI, that year.  I made it of Michigan white cedar, with a Sugar Pine head, using hand tools.  It was then cut in half and hollowed out using hand gouges to a thickness of approximately 1/4".  It measures 12.5" long and 5.5" wide. The bottom will be signed to provide for authenticity  If you like this bird, please check out my other carvings here on Ebay.