Elmer Crowell The Payson Crowell Preening Dowitcher

A. Elmer Crowell (1862-1952) East Harwich, MA, c. 1935 7 in. long, 8 in. tall

This exceedingly rare Crowell is making its market debut, coming directly from a descendant of Crowell patron Randolph Payson. Additionally, this is the first preening dowitcher we have seen at auction. Crowell is revered for his preening forms and this dowitcher was also finished with other fine carving embellishments including incised tail feathers and pronounced cheeks with eye grooves. The plumage is highly elaborate and the brushwork continues to the base with a painted grass design. The underside is signed and identified on a paper label, and is marked with Crowell’s rectangular stamp. Original paint with minimal wear.

Provenance: Randolph Payson Collection, Hyannis Port, Massachusetts, acquired from maker Elizabeth Codman Payson Collection, by descent from the above Private Collection, by descent from the above

Literature: Stephen B. O'Brien Jr. and Chelsie W. Olney, "Elmer Crowell: Father of American Bird Carving," Hingham, MA, 2019, p. 214 and inside back cover, related preening carvings illustrated.

Provenance

Randolph Payson Collection, Hyannis Port, Massachusetts, acquired from maker Elizabeth Codman Payson Collection, by descent from the above Private Collection, by descent from the above