Allen J. King Miniature Wild Turkey Pair With Poults

Allen J. King (1878-1963) North Scituate, RI, c. 1940 6 1/4 in. tall

A. J. King was a pioneer in the field of decorative miniature carving. To this day, his work is held in the highest esteem and few would argue about his place among the greatest miniature carvers of all time. During his lifetime, King sold his works through the Crossroads of Sport in New York City.

The following eight lots were collected by John and Dorothy Clay of Paris, Kentucky, in Bourbon County. Seven of the lots have the rare inclusion of the young along with the mature pairs of these prized species. These Clay King miniatures offer collectors a rare opportunity to own the best in early American bird carving.

"Of all the carvers of miniature and decorative birds in the mid-twentieth century, Allen J. King was without a doubt the most gifted and versatile artist." — Joseph H. Ellis, "Birds in Wood and Paint"

An exceptional turkey family with five poults on a signed burl base. Original paint with minimal wear, original beard has been reset.

Provenance: Originally purchased by John Harris Clay and Dorothy Norton Clay Private Collection, by descent in the family

Literature: Joseph Ellis, “Birds in Wood and Paint,” Hanover, NH, 2009, front cover and pp. 108-113, King carvings illustrated and discussed.

Provenance

Originally purchased by John Harris Clay and Dorothy Norton Clay Private Collection, by descent in the family