Wendell Gilley Half-size Kingfisher Pair

Wendell Gilley (1904-1983) Southwest Harbor, ME, c. 1970 14 in. tall, 12 in. long

The 1968 "Decoy Collector's Guide" described Gilley's craftsmanship: "For some years, Wendell Gilley of Southwest Harbor, Maine, has enjoyed national recognition for his decorative and life-like bird carvings." Today, he is recognized both in the market and through the Wendell Gilley Museum in his hometown.

This decorative carving depicts a pair of belted kingfishers perched on a piece of driftwood. The base is signed "Gilley." Along with the heron pair from the same estate, it is representative of the maker's best work. Original paint with minimal wear.

Provenance: Private Estate, Minnesota

Literature: Joseph Ellis, “Birds in Wood and Paint,” Hanover, NH, 2009, pp. 148-155, Gilley carvings illustrated and discussed.

Provenance

Private Estate, Minnesota