Elmer Crowell Du Pont Crowell Black-bellied Plover

A. Elmer Crowell (1862-1952) East Harwich, MA, c. 1930 9 in. long

This newly discovered carving exhibits Crowell's mastery of bird carving and paint application with superb blending and detailed feathering. It has a particularly refined bill and incised feathers on the tail. The underside of the base is signed with the rectangular stamp which has been colored red.

This carving, along with the two following lots, is making its market debut since it was acquired from Crowell by a member of the du Pont family. Excellent original paint with light wear, including a very minor wing-tip chip.

Provenance: Private Collection, a descendant of Thomas Coleman du Pont, acquired from the maker 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. 224, related plover illustrated.

Provenance

Private Collection, a descendant of Thomas Coleman du Pont, acquired from the maker Private Collection by descent from the above