*UPDATE*
Did a test render in Renderman, and I'm pretty happy with it. Actually, I'm very happy with it. Gotta add the fur, fix the ferrule at the top, add the other hand, and I think this will be all done...
*UPDATE*
Tweaked the details. Now to add shaders, maps and fur. Should be fun...
* UPDATE*
Added the head. Just a couple more details and I believe this is done. Although I do think the head looks a bit creepy right now...
I just picked up a copy of the "Monster Hunters Illustrations" book from a local bookstore, and the material in it is unbelievable. I have never played the game, so I am unfamiliar with the lore, but I saw a rendering of a Kushana and I thought I'd try modeling it. What an exercise it was. I'm still working on it, but it's close to completion. Here's the progress so far, and more to come very soon...
Subdivision Surfaces in Maya.