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Mason Decoy Factory Challenge Grade Black Duck, Original Paint

Offered by: Robert James Walsh & Company

Description
This decoy was made by the Mason Decoy Factory (1896-1924) of Detroit, Michigan, circa 1900. It came from a flock rig of Mason black duck decoys in a large, log-style lodge in Grand Lake Stream, Maine. The rig was purchased by the family in the early 20th century, but it was rarely used and it spent most of its life on a shelf in the lodge. It is in original, untouched condition, with a fine patina.

The Mason's Challenge Grade decoy is made from solid wood, and is hand-painted by Mason's best artists, with colorful wing feathers, head, and beak, which is incised along its length and along the edge where the beak meets the head. The eyes are glass. The bottom of the decoy is flat and is stenciled with the original word "Challenge" and the patent number in white paint, which have been partially rubbed off with shelf wear. The flat bottom allowed the decoy to be more stable when floating in the water, with less bobbing.

Mason decoys are especially collectible, and are universally admired for their artistic appeal, their high quality and accuracy, and their ability to do the job.

More Information

Origin:	United States, Michigan
Period:	1900-1919
Materials:	Turned, carved, painted wood
Condition:	Good. Wear consistent with age, minor structural damage. There is a natural age crack in the wood on the bottom. This is normal and does not detract from the decoy. There is a minor blemish in the paint on the right cheek as seen in the photographs.
Creation Date:	1900
Styles / Movements:	Turned Wood, Folk Art, Traditional
Patterns:	Animal/Insects
Dealer Reference #:	RJCW15-1
Incollect Reference #:	483111

Dimensions

W.	17 in;	H.	7.2 in;	D.	5 in;
W.	43.18 cm;	H.	18.29 cm;	D.	12.7 cm;

Message from Seller:

Robert James Walsh & Company is a thirty-year-old Vermont business dealing in antiques, art, and modernism. Robert Walsh, owner, is also an Accredited Member of Appraisers Association of America, as well as a respected consultant. We have participated in many international trade shows in the US and Canada.

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