Lloyd Tyler Turned-head Willet

Lloyd J. Tyler (1898-1970) Crisfield, MD, 1948 10 in. tall, 14 in. wide

An alert willet carving with raised wings on a driftwood base by Crisfield's self-titled "Coy Duck King." This exact Tyler carving is prominently illustrated in Henry Stansbury's monograph on the maker. As the book attests, Tyler was a storied individual who is contemporarily known for decoy making and antique trading, That said, Stansbury predicted, "... he will be best remembered as a truly great folk artist and painter."

This grand work has fully raised wings, a turned head, and excellent Tyler paint. It is pencil signed and dated on the underside of the base. This early date precedes many of the Ward Brothers' decoratives. Original paint with light wear and slight neck seam separation.

Provenance: Henry Stansbury Collection Private Collection, acquired from the above

Literature: Henry H. Stansbury, "Lloyd Tyler: Folk Artist, Decoy Maker," Lewes, DE, 1955, p. 106, exact carving illustrated.

Provenance

Henry Stansbury Collection Private Collection, acquired from the above