“The end of an era:” Master woodcarver Ignatius Peyrefitte dead at 91

By Aaron Humes: Saturday would have been his 92nd birthday, but news has been received of the passing of Ignatius Peyrefitte, also known as “Eggie” and “Sir Egg,” a pioneer woodcarver mentored by the late, great George Gabb, his uncle.

Peyrefitte came from a family of artisans, led by Gabb, who were described as “instrumental in the growth of this Belizean art form and sector of the tourist industry.”

Working out of a small workshop on Cemetery Road, Eggie produced “world-renowned” carvings of interpretations of nature which he sold to a devoted fanbase including sport fishermen who awarded them as trophies in major fishing tournaments over the years.

Fortunately, Ignatius Peyrefitte taught his children what he knew, and their artistry and that of others who have taken up woodcarving and sculpting has created a key niche in the tourism industry and in his later years was a humble mentor to younger fledgling artists.

A reader asserts, “The Belizean [ziricote] woodcarving and sculpting industry is what it is today due to the legacies of both Mr Ignatius Peyrefitte and his uncle Mr George Gabb.”

Breaking Belize News extends our condolences to the family. May he rest in peace.

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