Elmer Crowell Preening Black Duck

Exceedingly rare and outstanding, preening black duck, circa 1905. With head turned back to preen two inserted and crossed wing tips. Relief feather carving on raised wing tips. Chip carving on tail area, as seen on the artists earliest black ducks. Made for one of Crowell's important patrons, Stanley S. Smith. Believed by many to be Elmer Crowell's finest achievement. A series of numbers in invisible ink on the underside. Measures 16.5" long.

Provenance

Passed down in the Smith family. Alan and Elaine Haid collection.