John,
I also saw this piece over the weekend, the accuracy of the segmented work is excellent and I'd never of guessed from the cut of the lighter wood it was maple. The application of gold (real gold) to the natural small fissures in the wood gives the work a total lift.
I agree with you the finial needs a little more thought, the triangular middle section could be a little thinner, to blend the ball to the tip easier in the eye.
I'm sure it will receive many compliments in Ireland.
