Clarence T. Gardner Black Bellied Plover

Dr. Clarence T. Gardner (1844-1907) and Newton Dexter (d. 1901) Little Compton, RI, c. 1885

Painted in emerging or eclipse plumage, Gardner-Dexter shorebirds exhibiting this pattern are exceedingly rare.

In the 1930s Frank D. Lisle purchased the summer home of Dr. Clarence Gardner. The summer home, built in 1883, was perfectly located on the productive shores of Sakonnet Point which was ideal for fishing and hunting. Soon after the purchase, Lisle discovered Gardner and Dexter’s rig of shorebirds in an out-building on the property.

Newton Dexter was an excellent taxidermist and both gentlemen carved shorebirds while Dexter painted them. Information regarding this important rig was first published in Hal Sorenson’s "1966-67 Decoy Collector’s Guide." Original paint with minimal gunning wear. Small hole in left shoulder.

Provenance: Private Collection, Midwest

Literature: Robert Shaw, "Call to the Sky: The Decoy Collection of James M. McCleery, M.D.," Houston, TX, 1992, pp. 32-33, similar examples illustrated. Hal Sorenson ed., "Decoy Collector's Guide: 1966-67 Annual," Burlington, IA, pp. 63-67, similar examples illustrated.

Provenance

Private Collection, Midwest