Wendell Gilley Surf Scoter

Wendell Gilley (1904-1983) Southwest Harbor, ME, c. 1935

Gilley, an avid birdwatcher, hunter, and taxidermist, often used his mounts to inform his carvings. Inspired by Elmer Crowell, he took to carving bird miniatures in 1931 and sold them to Abercrombie and Fitch in New York City for under $5.00 apiece. He made working decoys for his friends and for his own use. The Wendell Gilley Museum in his hometown serves as a lasting tribute to this important Maine carver's work.

Original paint with even gunning wear.

Provenance: Private Collection, Massachusetts

Provenance

Private Collection, Massachusetts