Name:
Beak To Beak
Artist: Peter Calvesbert
Item No: TJLB
Made In: England
Status: Retired
Carving Date: 1995
Release Date: 12/1/1995
Retirement Date: 12/1/1997
Edition Size: 12422
US Issue Price in USD: $45
Dimensions (Inches): 2.2 x 1.61 x 2.24
Secrets:
Created as a Valentine’s Day piece for 1996, this
piece features two lovebirds nestled cozily on a bench.
Even Peter’s signature mouse has a mate for the
holiday. Inscribed on the bench is “PC loves AR”
(Peter Calvesbert and Andrea Riley), “MP loves
CP” (Martin and Corinna Perry), “RM loves
MH” (Ruth McDonald and Mike Horne, two close friends
of Peter’s), “BC loves FL” (Peter’s
brother and his girlfriend), and the anonymous “Trace
loves…” with a series of initials for her
string of lovers. The piece also contains a slew of
other lovers: amorous hedgehogs, snakes, mice, and even
a lonely little rabbit. “I love SA“ refers
to South Africa, where Peter and Andrea honeymooned
in October 1995. “MUFC” stands for Manchester
United Football Club. “HK Rules” refers
to Harmony Kingdom and “Noel” for Noel Wiggins.
Peter’s obsession with the Mazda MX5 (“MXV”)
sports car is compared to the then new MGF he wanted.
Carved on the back of the bench is “Sticky + Tonkin
P.I.P.” which immortalises Ruth and Mike’s
pets who both tragically died on the same day. “P.I.P.”
means “play in peace.” The two cans reflect
Peter’s concern about littering. Inside is the
HBC logo. Some pieces have 1995 on the back of the bench
while most have 1996. Hallmarks include apple, clock
face with month 11, HBC logo, and Pc.
Variations:
There are three variations with this piece. The
first version is very rare and has 1995 on the back
of the bench. Version 2 covers most of the benches and
has 1996 on the rear of the bench. The third version
covers benches that were painted with a bright green
stain.
- - Information courtesy of Jeff Hix
