Rare and important miniature Common Eider Drake by Elmer Crowell, East Harwich, MA c.1908-10 from the Betram K. (1899-1993) & Nina Fletcher Little (1903-1993) family collection. Believed to be amongst the first stamped examples Elmer ever made.
Excellent original paint, even on the legs. Standing upon a round and uniquely crafted flatter top, unusual of Crowell's typically domed bases. Mint Crowell ink stamp on the underside. Small label reading 'Common Eider Duck (Male)' on the underside, likely an addition by the Littles. Such a rare example, the Common Eider isn't listed on any of Elmer's species lists. A crowning miniature in any serious Crowell collection, with better provenance and quality than the miniature Eider that sold at Guyette & Deeter for $8,400 in 2021.
Both Bert & Nina Little are best recognized for their work in the preservation, exhibition, and education of American Folk Art. Nina is regarded as one of the most important scholars in the field of American Folk Art having published numerous books on the subject.
Condition: Mint
2.75" tall
Provenance:
Marguerite Souther, family acquired from CrowellBetram K. & Nina Fletcher Little, acquired from above
Warren M. Little, acquired from above
Literature:
Nina Fletcher Little, “Little by Little: Six Decades of Collecting Decorative American Arts” New York, NY, 1984, p.173-176 partial Crowell miniature collection pictured and discussed.
Stephen B. O'Brien Jr. and Chelsie W. Olney, "Elmer Crowell: Father of American Bird Carving," Hingham, MA, 2019, p. 241 related carving illustrated
"American Decoy, The Invention," curated by Peoria Riverfront Museum Exhibit, p. 55, related example pictured.
