Allen J. King Exceedingly Rare Large Pintail Drake Miniature

Allen J. King (1878-1963) North Scituate, RI, c. 1935 bird is 9 1/2 in. long, lamp is 26 in.

"The Crossroads catalogs trumpeted his artistic achievements, on occasion noting, of his carvings: 'No two groups are alike; both the positions of the birds and the mountings vary from group to group.' Crossroads also offered made-to-order species, as well as larger bird dimensions and varied types of settings" — Joseph Ellis, "Birds in Wood and Paint"

This exceptional nine-and-one-half-inch-long pintail showcases King at a larger scale than his usual miniatures. The bird is on an elaborate base which is affixed to a lamp. Morgan acquired this from the Crossroads of Sport in New York City, circa 1935. Original paint with even wear and missing end of tail. Some gesso loss at feet.

Provenance: Henry Sturgis Morgan Collection, acquired from the Crossroads of Sport, New York Private Collection, by descent in the family

Literature: Joseph Ellis, “Birds in Wood and Paint,” Hanover, NH, 2009, front cover and pp. 108-111, special larger Kings illustrated and discussed.

Provenance

Henry Sturgis Morgan Collection, acquired from the Crossroads of Sport, New York Private Collection, by descent in the family