The Beginnings

Edgar Meyer

Description of Image:

(2006) Black walnut with white oak base; 6” x 8” x 8”  

A model of the 3-day, 8-cell undifferentiated human embryo (blastocyst) was commissioned as a memorial to Dr. Pete Rauh, an obstetrician-gynecologist and Air Force flight surgeon. The model, called “The Beginnings” by Pete’s wife, Claudette, was carved from two laminated 4” x 8” x 8” black walnut blocks. The complementary base was carved from a 2” thick block of white oak. 

Detail of image.

My program SCULPT (© EM 2006) generated the “G” code for a CNC milling machine, which was funded by a grant from the US NSF (DBI 0505875). The model possesses idealized 422 symmetry. This piece pressed to the limit the ability of a 20 cm carbide tool bit to carve in the vertical dimension. The model was carved, flipped, and the opposite side carved to give the 3-D sculpture. After light sanding, the model and base were finished with multiple coats of polyurethane varnish.