Elmer Crowell Extraordinary Wing-up Yellowlegs On Shell

A. Elmer Crowell (1862-1952) East Harwich, MA, c. 1930 7 3/4 in. tall

The preening posture presents an exceptionally difficult challenge for any maker. Crowell was a master of preening forms, and he used this special wing-up model to showcase his deft painting abilities. He seems to thrive within the self-presented challenge of doubling the size of his canvas and adding two different plumage presentations, one on each side of the wing. This example represents a particularly fine execution of his paint and form, finished with incised tail feathers.

Crowell's wing-up examples are rare and highly sought after. To wit, a closely related wing-up greater yellowlegs with similar paint treatment brought $84,000 at Copley's Sporting Sale 2022. The carving displays the maker's rectangular stamp and handwritten signature, "A. E. Crowell, Cape Cod,” on the bottom of the clamshell base. Excellent original paint with light wear and typical minute beads at neck seam.

Provenance: Estate of William S. Sachse

Literature: Stephen B. O'Brien Jr. and Chelsie W. Olney, "Elmer Crowell: Father of American Bird Carving," Hingham, MA, 2019, p. 147, related Evans Collection curlew example illustrated.

Provenance

Estate of William S. Sachse