Brian Knapp Antiques

Description

A North American primitive duck decoy artfully sculpted from a block of softwood of spruce or pine. The rough-hewn underbelly and the simple two-piece construction produce a simple yet effective result. The head is secured to the body by a doweled shaft, clearly visible on top of the head. While the silhouette and species of the bird indicate an effort to reproduce the size and plumage of a widgeon, a bird commonly hunted along Americas East coast. The broad underside and fading not only indicates its age, but also suggests indicates it was likely used in rougher waters, possibly in ocean harbours rather than inland lakes. Its underside retains the remains of a leather loop which facilitated the dispersal and collection of the ‘rig’. (a group of decoys used to entice other birds to join the group) Its charming, rugged simplicity appealing to collectors who appreciate the primitive artistry, tactile surface history and its naive folk-art qualities.