Elmer Crowell Important Black-bellied Plover

A. Elmer Crowell (1862-1952) East Harwich, MA, c. 1912 This exceptional mantel shorebird carving is from the collection of Joseph Archibald Hagar (1896-1989), who was the Massachusetts State Ornithologist from 1934-1959. From his South Shore home, he was a noted authority on shorebirds, peregrine falcons, and black ducks, and a member of the prestigious Nuttall Ornithology Club, founded in 1873.

This plover exhibits highly unusual crossed raised primary wing carving rarely seen in Crowell’s decorative shorebirds. The bird’s anatomy is perfect and the bill carving is as fine as we have ever seen on any plover carving by any maker. It is mounted on a carved quahog shell base with the maker’s crisp oval brand impressed on the bottom. One of the finest Crowell plovers ever to come to the market. Outstanding original condition with a minor paint flake at edge of bill, minimal fly specks and minor craquelure at neck.

Provenance: Joseph Archibald Hagar Collection Private Collection, Maine, by descent in the family

Provenance

Joseph Archibald Hagar Collection Private Collection, Maine, by descent in the family