Rooster

DateProbably 1850-1875

MediumEastern white pine and paint (wood microscopically analyzed 12/28/1973)

DimensionsOverall: 10 3/8 x 10 1/4 x 2 5/8in. (26.4 x 26 x 6.7cm)

Credit LineFrom the collection of Abby Aldrich Rockefeller; gift of the Museum of Modern Art

Object number1932.701.4

DescriptionA freestanding polychromed woodcarving of a rooster, his head erect, his tail feathers widspread.Label TextNumerous painted woodcarvings of similarly posed roosters have been noted. Judging by microscopic wood analysis and existing documentable histories, most of these were made in German-speaking areas of Europe. Many were brought to America, either in the nineteenth century---by immigrants, as reminders of European roots---or in the twentieth century---by dealers, as saleable decorations. Based on the analysis of its wood (which tests as eastern white pine), this particular example is one of the few believed to have been made in America.Inscription(s)No original inscriptions or marks were found. In red paint on the bottom appears, "By [or possibly Bx] 7-7", presumably a dealer's code. Also on the bottom in black paint appear, "701.10" and "32.701.4" (both, AARFAC acc. nos.). Also on the bottom in yellow paint is, "701" (a Rockefeller and/or AARFAC acc. no.) and a now totally illegible inscription in pencil, plus various splotches of paint.ProvenanceFound in New York City by Edith Gregor Halpert, Downtown Gallery, New York, NY; acquired from Halpert by Abby Aldrich Rockefeller; given by the latter to the Museum of Modern Art, New York, NY, in 1939; given by MoMA to CWF in June 1954.