RARE miniature Wood Duck drake by Jess Blackstone of Concord, NH c.1950
 
As an ardent ornathologist, of all miniaturists, he focused most on 'life-like' accuracy in paint and form.  His carvings, like this Wood Duck, entail superb paint, primary carved details and perfectly rasped lines providing texture to the surface.  The base is a perfectly carved piece of wood, shaped and finished to resemble a rock.  Jess focused mostly on songbirds making far less waterfowl and shorebird carvings.  The number on the underside indicates this is only the 6th Wood Duck he had made.
 
He spent his youth up until his passing studying and sketching birds.  Even during his time in the military during WWII, Jess still found time to carve and study different species in Germany.  His most notable overseas carving is his published double sided Wagtail that he carved while serving in 1945.
 
Condition: Near mint, slight rub on rear right of tail edge with a small and mostly unnoticeable darkened drip on the lower back
 
3.25” tall