Elmer Crowell Exceptional Black-bellied Plover

A. Elmer Crowell (1862-1952) East Harwich, MA, c. 1915 10 in. long

An early shorebird mantel carving displaying some of the Harwich master's finest blended plumage. Of note is the hint of auricular feather paint detail surrounding the eye. The maker’s attention to detail was virtually unrivaled in any carvings produced by other makers during Crowell’s lifetime.

The plover, exhibiting a split tail and anatomically accurate bill carving, is mounted on a detailed faux carved and painted base with Crowell's early oval brand on the bottom.

This decorative as well as the previous lot have remained as a pair since they were acquired together from a Mount Desert Island estate. Excellent original paint with light wear, some sap along breast, tip of one toe is missing.

Provenance: Private Collection, Mount Desert Island, Maine Thomas and Nancy Hennessey Collection, acquired from the above

Literature: Stephen B. O'Brien Jr. and Chelsie W. Olney, "Elmer Crowell: Father of American Bird Carving," Hingham, MA, 2019, p. 218, 219, related plover illustrated.

Provenance

Private Collection, Mount Desert Island, Maine Thomas and Nancy Hennessey Collection, acquired from the above