Allen J. King Miniature Turkey Pair

Allen J. King (1878-1963) North Scituate, RI, c. 1940 5 1/2 in. tall

A. J. King was a pioneer in the field of decorative miniature carving. To this day, his work is held in the highest esteem and few would argue about his place among the greatest miniature carvers of all time. During his lifetime, King sold his works through the Crossroads of Sport in New York City.

A pair of wild turkeys on a wooden base. The tom is standing and the hen is resting; both exhibit raised wings and intricately carved details specific to the species. A closely related pair is in the prized King collection at the Mass Audubon Visual Arts Center. The base bears the maker's signature. Excellent original paint with minimal wear, including flaking at tom's feet.

Provenance: Dr. Leonard O. Oden Collection

Literature: Joseph Ellis, “Birds in Wood and Paint,” Hanover, NH, 2009, p. 108, closely related carvings illustrated.

Provenance

Dr. Leonard O. Oden Collection