George Boyd Miniature Puffin

George Boyd (1873-1941) Seabrook, NH, c. 1930 In "Handicrafts of New England" by Allen H. Eaton, Boyd is described as "the pioneer whittler of New Hampshire birds." This rare bird is one of two puffins that sold out of a major collection of Boyd miniatures in a New Hampshire auction. Prior to that auction this bird was purchased directly from Boyd in the 1930s and descended through the family. The colorfully patterned face detail is reminiscent of the Native American carvings of the Pacific Northwest. Boyd author Jim Cullen showcases the distinctive craquelure of Boyd's paint with his dust jacket back cover illustration. This puffin has perhaps the most intricate and appealing craquelure of any Boyd miniature we have ever seen. 3 5/8 inches tall. In excellent original condition.

Provenance: Private Collection, New Hampshire, acquired from George Boyd in the 1930's. By descent in the family. Peter Brams Collection

Literature: Joseph Ellis, "Birds in Wood and Paint," Lebanon, NH, 2009, p. 88. Jim Cullen, "Finely Carved & Nicely Painted" Rye, NH, 2009, p. 81, related example pictured.

Provenance

Private Collection, New Hampshire, acquired from George Boyd in the 1930's. By descent in the family. Peter Brams Collection