Three Humpback Whales

The Tay Whale that fatally swam into the Tay Estuary in 1883 was a humpback whale. Neil has been particularly interested in this whale family since he worked at the McManus Galleries in Dundee.
 
This unique design of three intertwined humpback whales is made in the style of a mediaeval roof boss. Their spiral motion refers to their feeding habits, commencing with them swimming in increasing spirals from the depths of the ocean. Arising, they release streams of tiny bubbles which form a bubble 'net' in the shape of a cone which traps the small fish and krill which they then gorge upon.
 
This is a stone carving in red St Bees sandstone.