By René Lavoie; Château-Richer, Quebec; early twentieth century; painted wood; 89 x 27.5 x 24 cm; Price Collection. CMC 79-1727

The Quebec wood carving tradition dates as far back as the mid-eighteenth century, and carving remains important today. Much of the early work was subsidized by the Church, and particular families and regions became well known over the generations for their skill. Two distinct branches of the carving tradition developed, one specializing in holy images, altarpieces and other church decorations; the second depicted working men, such as the habitant or voyageur, but this tradition became romanticized and mass-produced to the point of cliché. This model portraying the clearing of land maintains the vigour for which Quebec carvers are noted.