George Boyd Miniature Eskimo Curlew

George H. Boyd (1873-1941) Seabrook, NH, c. 1920 4 1/4 in. long

An exceedingly rare species for the maker, this is the exact miniature from the Philip S. Drake Collection that sold in 1977. The Drake collection consisted of over 150 of the finest George Boyd carvings. Jim Cullen, in his thorough book on the artist titled "Finely Carved & Nicely Painted: The Life, Art and Decoys of George H. Boyd," features a related long-billed curlew. The absence of any Eskimo curlew illustrations in this definitive book speaks volumes to the rarity of this stunning mini. "Eskimo Curlew" is written in pencil by the maker on the bottom of the base. Original paint with a few rubs and minor darkening.

Provenance: Philip S. Drake Collection Donal C. O'Brien, Jr. Collection

Literature: M.D. Straw, Jr. & Emory Sanders Auctioneers, "Important Auction Boyd Miniature Decoys," Wentworth-by-the-Sea, NH, October 17, 1977, lot 18, exact bird illustrated. Jackson Parker, “Boyd Miniature Decoys Bring High Prices At Auction,” North American Decoys Magazine, Spanish Fork, UT, Summer 1978, p. 39, exact bird illustrated.

Provenance

Philip S. Drake Collection Donal C. O'Brien, Jr. Collection