Elisha Burr The Mackey Burr Running Black-bellied Plover

Elisha Burr (1839-1909) Hingham, MA, c. 1880 11 3/4 in. long

Elisha Burr was a master of capturing the postures of live birds and many of his works were carved in animated poses with complex wing and tail treatments. This dynamic example also showcases the artist's lively brush strokes, creating a decoy alive with movement.

This vivacious carving has glass eyes set under crisp brows. The plump body is finished with the maker's best split-wing, detailed primary, and drop-tail carving. The underside of the bird's left flank is crisply stamped with the white Mackey Collection stamp. Both Mackey and Colio chose to feature this pinnacle work in their respective books. Outstanding original paint with light gunning wear.

Provenance: William J. Mackey Jr. Collection Dr. Peter J. Muller Jr. Collection

Literature: Richard A. Bourne Co., Inc., "Very Rare and Important American Bird Decoys from the Collection of the late William J. Mackey Jr. of Belford, New Jersey," Hyannis, MA, 1973, Session I & II, lot 481, exact decoy illustrated. William J. Mackey Jr., "American Bird Decoys," New York, NY, 1965, p. 88, pl. 69, exact decoy illustrated. Quintina Colio, "American Decoys," Ephrata, PA, 1972, p. 72, exact decoy illustrated (in reverse). Jackson Parker, “Going, Going, Gone!” North American Decoys Magazine, Spring 1974, p. 33 (center of right column), exact decoy illustrated.

Provenance

William J. Mackey Jr. Collection Dr. Peter J. Muller Jr. Collection