{"product_id":"essence-25-2026","title":"\"Essence 25\" 2026","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eEssence 25 (2026)\u003c\/em\u003e is a one-of-a-kind sculptural work by New Zealand artist John Allen — and one of the most personally storied pieces in the entire \u003cem\u003eEssence\u003c\/em\u003e series. Handcrafted from almond wood sourced from an old tree in Kohimarama, Auckland, this sculpture carries within it an extraordinary history that spans more than four decades.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe timber began its journey in June 1982, when a branch was trimmed from the tree and gifted to the artist in 1985 by a family friend. It was then stored carefully for 44 years — slowly seasoning, drying, and waiting. Wood that has dried over such a long period develops a stability and density that freshly cut timber simply cannot match, and the result is a material of exceptional quality, ready to be worked with precision and care.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlmond wood is rarely encountered in New Zealand sculpture — its fine grain, warm tone, and the quiet history held within this particular piece make \u003cem\u003eEssence 25\u003c\/em\u003e unlike anything else in the collection. Finished with natural oil and wax, the surface draws out the warmth and character of the timber while preserving its organic nature.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eEssence 25\u003c\/em\u003e offers a lasting alternative to the fleeting — an original artwork that carries genuine personal and natural history, symbolising patience, friendship, and the beauty of things that take time. Entirely unique, this handcrafted sculpture is a deeply personal and considered gift for someone truly special.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSpecifications:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTitle: \u003cem\u003eEssence 25\u003c\/em\u003e (2026)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eArtist: John Allen\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMaterials: Almond wood (Kohimarama, Auckland) — stored 44 years\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFinish: Oil and wax\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHeight: 200 mm | Width: 90 mm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCare: Indoor display recommended\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"JOHN ALLEN SCULPTOR","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":58561955037344,"sku":null,"price":350.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0685\/8172\/0224\/files\/IMG_1349.jpg?v=1785391946","url":"https:\/\/www.johnallensculptor.com\/products\/essence-25-2026","provider":"JOHN ALLEN SCULPTOR","version":"1.0","type":"link"}