Laurent Verdin Jr. Life-size Pelican

Laurent Verdin, Jr (1936-2019) Bayou Blue, LA 18.5"long

Referred to as the "Elmer Crowell of the Bayous" by Charles Frank for his imaginative decorative creations. A carver of French and Native American heritage coming from a lineage of Verdin carvers who used their decoys to sustain off the land. In a prior write up about his father we wrote, "A descendant of the local Houma Indian tribe, the Verdins lived with little regard for modern technologies, reportedly without electricity or running water. They relied on the land, sustaining themselves and earning income through trapping, hunting, and fishing."

Decoys and carvings by the Verdins are held in prominent collections and museums across the country, including at one time President Ronald Reagans personal collection.

Relief carved wings with crossed wing tips. Incised bill details and glass eyes. Learning from his father, Laurent Sr, sandpaper was seldom used in the finishing. Rather birds were chip carved and any smoothing required beyond that was achieved with the use of oyster shells lending to the appealing folk art finish.

Condition: Entirely original with scattered surface wear

Provenance: Don Weaver Collection

Provenance

Don Weaver Collection