Chauncey Wheeler Flying Goldeneye Hen

Chauncey Wheeler (1888-1945) Alexandria Bay, NY, c. 1920 3 1/4 by 16 by 6 in.

This half-bodied duck model displays a glass eye in a gentle eye groove, exceptional blended painted feather detail, a gracefully curved wing, and incised bill and tail carving. On the back is a handcrafted copper hanger and "Chauncey Wheeler" script signature.

Wheeler was a master carver from the St. Lawrence River area. He was regarded as the "Dean of the Holland Street decoy makers," a group which included Clovis LeFebvre, Frank Coombs, and Roy Conklin. Wheeler is credited with starting several carving trends in his region, such as the carved horizontal eye groove and half-model flying wall mounts. In 1934, with Wheeler's permission, Roy Conklin received a patent from the United States government to manufacture these decorative carvings.

One of Wheeler's famous patrons was American composer and conductor John Philip Sousa (1854-1932). Sousa not only bought many decorative carvings and decoys from Wheeler, but also took carving lessons from him. This golden eye, with its intricately blended stippled paint and graceful lines, epitomizes the classic design of the Holland Street school. Original paint with wear, minor chip to wing tip, and a re-set foot edge.

Provenance: Massey Collection Towner Collection Private Collection

Literature: Harold W. Reiser III, "Chance, A Man of Great Talent, Strength and Mystery," Lewes, DE, 2002, p. 87, exact bird illustrated.

Provenance

Massey Collection Towner Collection Private Collection