David Esterly

David Esterly (May 10, 1944 – June 15, 2019) was an American limewood carver, self-described sculptor and writer. He was known for his naturalistic style of the British carver Grinling Gibbons (1648–1721). He was born in Akron, Ohio.

Esterly’s own carving began as decorative foliage work. He was a guest artist at the American Academy in Rome. He worked on commission for patrons in the United States, Britain, and Europe. His works are at the Munson-Williams-Proctor Art Institute in Utica.

In early 2019, he was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Esterly died at his home in Barneveld, Wisconsin from the disease on June 15, 2019, aged 75.

David Esterly Media

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  David Esterly (1944-2019) with his piece Quodlibet #7, 2012. Limewood on painted backboard, from the collection of Martha J. Fleischman

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  Musical trophy, limewood, 2004.

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  Botanical head, 2005.

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  Overmantel (detail), 2007.