Classic American Bird Carving: An Introduction

Wood Duck Drake by Benjamin W. Pease (1866-1938), Martha’s Vineyard, MA. Collection of Thomas K. Figge.

The classic period of American bird carving spanned a century, beginning in the mid-1800s. Over the course of those years, the work evolved from working decoys to decoratives, and finally to miniature bird models. This exhibit displays decoys and decorative carvings from some of the masters of the craft, including Elmer Crowell, Melvin Lawrence, Benjamin Pease and A. J. King. This small exhibit is a wonderful introduction to the evolution of bird carving from the hunter’s working decoy to the decorative miniature made for the mantelpiece.