Elmer Crowell Outstanding Pair of Goldeneyes

A. Elmer Crowell (1862-1952) East Harwich, MA, c. 1905 From the historic Crowell decoy rig ordered by John Ware Willard (1859-1914), grandson of the famous Colonial Massachusetts clockmaker, Simon Willard (1753-1848). In the March 2010 issue of Decoy Magazine there is an informative article on the provenance of this decoy rig titled “Connecting the Dots: Exploring the Provenance of Elmer Crowell’s decoys” written by noted decoy authors, Linda and Gene Kangas. In this article the authors explore Crowell's best patrons that along with Willard included Harry V. Long (1857-1949), Dr. John C. Phillips, Jr. (1876-1938), Stanley W. Smith, Esq. (1869-1941) and Dr. John H. Cunningham, Jr. (1877-1960) among others who challenged Crowell to produce his very best works. This goldeneye pair represents an exceptional product of that challenge. They are early full-bodied hollow carved decoys in a rare content or tucked head posture. The backs display Crowell’s finest raised and carved primaries and fluted tail. The slightly turned heads reveal subtle rasping detail. Soft stippled feather-work, especially prominent on the hen, is amongst the finest seen on any Crowell decoy. The bottom boards bear the “J.W.W.” brand and McCleery Collection ink stamp. Original condition with minimal gunning wear.

Provenance: Dr. James M. McCleery Collection Private Collection, Virginia (Acquired at Sotheby's, 2000)

Literature: Linda and Gene Kangas, "Connecting the Dots- Exploring the Provenance of Elmer Crowell's Decoys," Decoy Magazine, Lewes, DE, March/April, 2010, pp. 30-33, rigmates illustrated. Sotheby's and Guyette & Schmidt, American Waterfowl Decoys "The Distinguished Collection of Dr. James M. Mc Cleery," New York, January, 22, 2000, p. 46, lot 73, exact bird illustrated.

Provenance

Dr. James M. McCleery Collection Private Collection, Virginia (Acquired at Sotheby's, 2000)