Elmer Crowell Exemplary Crossed and Raised-wing Redhead Drake

A. Elmer Crowell (1862-1952) East Harwich, MA, c. 1930 14 1/4 in. long

A refined redhead drake with carved and crossed primary feathers, carved flanks, and fluted tail carving. The wet-on-wet paint shows great detail and the head is turned to the right. Attesting to the pride the maker took in completing this work, the underside is beautifully signed in pen "A. E. Crowell" and is struck with the rectangular stamp. Excellent original paint with even wear, minor touch-up to part of neck seam and two small spots on right side. Small original hole under tail.

Provenance: Private Collection, acquired from Stephen B. O'Brien Jr. Fine Arts, 2004

Literature: Stephen B. O’Brien Jr. Fine Arts, “American, Sporting & Western Paintings, Antique Decoys & American Folk Art,” 2004 Catalog, Boston, MA, 2004, lot 43, exact decoy illustrated. Stephen B. O'Brien Jr. and Chelsie W. Olney, "Elmer Crowell: Father of American Bird Carving," Hingham, MA, 2019, p. 191, standing decorative redhead illustrated.

Provenance

Private Collection, acquired from Stephen B. O'Brien Jr. Fine Arts, 2004