Elmer Crowell Turned-head Semipalmated Plover

A. Elmer Crowell (1862-1952) East Harwich, MA, c. 1920 5 1/2 in. long

A rare and early semipalmated plover with a turned head. As with his dust-jacket decoys, Crowell carefully joined the head to the body for his turned-head models. This extra work may explain the rarity of this form in his shorebird portfolio. The bird is finished with richly blended paint. The underside of the carved clamshell base is signed with the hot oval brand and stamped "CR" for the Rowland Collection. Original paint with light wear.

Provenance: Carolyn Rowland Collection Michael Boxer Collection

Literature: Stephen B. O'Brien Jr. and Chelsie W. Olney, "Elmer Crowell: Father of American Bird Carving," Hingham, MA, 2019, p. 52, related carving illustrated. Richard A. Bourne Co., Inc., "Public Auction" Hyannis, MA, August 1, 1972, lot 167, exact bird illustrated.

Provenance

Carolyn Rowland Collection Michael Boxer Collection