Black Duck
A. Elmer Crowell (1862-1952)
East Harwich, MA, c. 1915
17.5"
 
A spectacular early oval brand example in stunning condition with bone dry vibrant original paint.  Smooth body gunning black ducks, Elmer's most common decoys, are exceptionally rare to be found in this state simply for the fact that especially at this time, all of these decoys were made to be vigorously hunted over in ponds and coastal marshes.
 
A slightly fatter black duck than his streamline black ducks, this one features bright bold feathering with three ticking lines down the back and bright purple and blue speculums.  The head is relatively straight, has glass eyes and typical bill carved details.  Crisp and nearly complete oval brand is on the underside as well as remnant holes from when it was rigged and lightly used.
 
A no excuses Crowell black duck that would serve as a cornerstone Black Duck for any collection.  Please refer to numerous photos for up close surface detail.
 
Condition: Near mint.  Paint has thinned in places on the face due to light paint application.  Minimal paint wear to small spots on the bill edge.