Elmer Crowell Outstanding Wood Duck Drake

A. Elmer Crowell (1862-1952) East Harwich, MA, c. 1915 One of the finest Crowell decorative carvings to ever come to market, only two other examples of these early oval brand decorative wood ducks are known to exist, one carved for Crowell's patron Dr. John H. Cunningham and one for Crowell's gunning friend Ernest Loring. The concise portrayal of species form, stellar paint, and early construction place it alongside the artist's greatest achievements. The slightly turned head has a sweeping crest and a delicately carved bill with nostril and extended nail carving. The well-proportioned body has subtly contoured wings that are slightly raised with the thin extended tail ending in a curved notch. Detailed carved legs and feet are set on a carved "rock" base with a hint of moss suggested with a few brush strokes. Impasto brush strokes of white over the red blended paint create an illusion of depth to the feathering on the breast.

Crowell carefully blended the green paint on the head, body, and tail to suggest light illuminating the iridescence of this species' natural feathering.

Crowell's oval brand signature is impressed in the bottom of the base. The lower tip of the bill has been reset. A few minimal rubs from handling, and one minor rub near the left speculum.

Provenance: Private Collection, Massachusetts (acquired from Kenneth W. Van Blarcom Auctioneers in the late 1990s)

Literature: Brian Cullity, "The Songless Aviary: The World of A. E. Crowell & Son," Sandwich, MA, 1992, p. 83, plate 46, p. 50, color plate V, similar carving illustrated, p.117, plate 129, similar bird pattern illustrated.

Provenance

Private Collection, Massachusetts (acquired from Kenneth W. Van Blarcom Auctioneers in the late 1990s)