$18,960
Crowell Carved and Painted Woodcock Ornamental Mantel Figure, A. Elmer Crowell (1862-1952), East Harwich, Massachusetts, with inset glass eyes, subtle delineated tail tip, the figure mounted on a burl base, signed "A.E. Crowell/Maker/Cape Cod," (small paint loss on bill and tail tips, losses on feet, minor craquelure to paint on back), ht. 4 1/2 in. Literature: This bird carving was made early in Crowell's career, sometime before 1912. His signature bears the additional inscription "Maker" which according to Brian Cullity in The Songless Aviary: The World of A.E. Crowell, Heritage Plantation of Sandwich, 1992, p. 20-21. "...early carvings by Elmer are signed "Maker"- a reflection of craftsmanship and the pride of making an individual object. Crowell begins using the word 'manufacturer' in 1912 to reflect his entry into the business world." Cracks around and a couple small losses to gesso joining legs to the body.
Auctioneer:
Skinner
Date:
2010-08-15
