147: A C.W. PARKER ANIMATED OWL SHOOTING GALLERY TARGET

The figural owl shooting gallery target cast in detail with pronounced ears tufts, embossed head detail, circular eye feathering, highly domed eyes, distinct feather detail across the wings and chest, feet detailed on tree branch and small bullseye. A successful strike would activate the 'flapping' of the wings. Parker described the owls as being used on eaves and on tree limbs, depending on the type of gallery in which the owl appeared. Signed 'Manufactured by CW Parker Abilene KAS' in the casting back side, which dates this to before 1911.

Pictured on page 30 (Figure 2.5) of Sellers' book and illustrated in many Parker advertisements and catalogs including page 8 of Parker's Catalogue of Shooting Galleries, Model No. 6.
Displayed on a custom iron stand.
Measures 16 x 12 inches, excluding stand.
Very good original condition, there are no issues of damage or repair, three casting flaws including a hole at one side, loss to one ear, porosity near the bull's eye, very good surface with traces of old paint.
$7,000 - $9,000