[Woodcarver] Statue Repair

[Alex Bisso]

Thanks to lots of knowledgeable input from contributers to this great 
e-list, I feel that I am well prepared to do the statue repair.  Plans are 
to use the suggestions given as follows:
I will drill multiple holes from the bottom of the statue - the largest one 
up the center to remove as much of that as possible and then a ring of 
holes -  possibly smaller diameter (not less than 9/16") around the center 
hole.  I think the multiple hole idea is a good one.  It is doable and both 
Ivan W. and Tony E. (replied off list) said they have had some success with 
it.
Since the hair/headdress on top is black and the carving is simple, I think 
I will also drill at least one hole from the top of the head down through 
the neck.  This hole will get a surface plug and be carved to the original 
shape before refinishing.
All cracks that I can fit a wedge of wood into will get one.  To do this I 
will cut and fit all of the pieces into the statue just finger tight.  Then 
I will remove and glue them in place in some ordered sequence, probably 
starting with the largest crack and working to the smaller ones.  Hairline 
(less than 1/16" ?) cracks will only get beeswax as per Joe's suggestion. 
After the glue (will probably use Elmer's wood glue or Titebond wood glue - 
I do not have much experience with hide glue) is cured the protruding wedge 
edges will be carved off shaped to transition nicely to the original carved 
designs.
Then the repaired areas (and maybe the entire statue) will be 
repainted/refinished.
Let me know if this plan raises any red flags.
In case you are interested in seeing a photo of the whole statue (my camera 
battery went dead when I took the current photos), I plan to add one to my 
picturetrail album - will let you know when it is done.  I will also add a 
photo of the statue after repairs and let you know about that as well.
Thanks again for the education.
ALEX