Antique Duck Decoys: Valuable History And Collectible Art

Antique duck decoys hold a unique place in the world of collectibles, combining elements of art, history, and hunting culture. These handcrafted carvings were originally used to lure waterfowl within range of hunters' guns, but over time they have become highly sought after by collectors around the world.

From the early decoys made by Native Americans to the mass-produced models of commercial companies, antique duck decoys offer a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of decoy-making and the history of waterfowl hunting.

For example, one particularly valuable antique duck decoy is the Mason Premier Bluebill, produced by the Mason Decoy Company in Detroit, Michigan. These decoys were first introduced in 1902 and are highly sought after by collectors due to their intricate details and exceptional craftsmanship.

The Mason Decoy Company was one of the largest producers of duck decoys in the early 20th century, and their decoys are known for their high quality and durability. This example highlights the importance of understanding the factors that contribute to a decoy's value, which include the maker, condition, rarity, and regional style.

Origins and Evolution

The historical development of duck decoys from Native American hunting tools to the popularity of commercial hunting decoys in the mid-19th century is a significant aspect of the origins and evolution of antique duck decoys.

Native Americans used mud and carcasses to create decoys for hunting purposes. This practice continued until the mid-19th century when commercial hunting decoys became fashionable. These decoys were made of painted, hollow, wooden, or solid materials in the shape of ducks, shorebirds, and geese.

Commercial hunting decoys were popular among huntsmen until the mid-20th century when modern technology and materials replaced the practice. However, antique duck decoys became more popular among collectors during this time.

Han Sorenson of Burlington published The Decoy Collectors Guide magazine, which led to the antique market exploding. Today, antique duck decoys are highly collectible and valuable, with factors such as maker, region, species, condition, rarity, strength of maker attribution, and size determining their worth.

Factors Affecting Value

One important aspect to consider when evaluating the worth of these traditional hunting tools is to closely analyze the specific attributes of each unique decoy. The maker, region, decoy species, condition, rarity, strength of maker attribution, and size are all essential factors that determine a duck decoy's value.

The most valuable antique decoys are those that were crafted by well-known and respected carvers and are in excellent condition. Decoys from certain regions are also more valuable than others due to their historical significance and unique characteristics.

Another factor that affects the value of antique duck decoys is their rarity. If a particular decoy is one of only a few known examples, its value will be much higher than more commonly found models.

Additionally, the strength of the maker attribution is crucial when evaluating a decoy's worth. If a decoy can be definitively attributed to a particular maker, its value will be higher than a similar example without a clear attribution.

Finally, the size of the decoy can also impact its value, with larger examples generally being more valuable than smaller ones. Overall, the careful consideration of these various factors is essential when evaluating the worth of antique duck decoys.

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Regional Styles and Makers

Regional styles and makers of hunting decoys have played a significant role in the evolution of duck decoys as a functional and aesthetic hunting tool. Each region developed its own style, carving techniques, and materials that were specific to the birds found in the area. The following are regional styles and makers of hunting decoys that have contributed to the history and collectible art of antique duck decoys:

1. The Chesapeake Bay region was known for producing decoys made of solid cedar with a heavy body and lead weights. The decoys were designed to withstand rough conditions in the bay and attract birds from long distances. Chesapeake Bay decoys were often painted in muted colors and had simple forms that were easy to carve.

2. Illinois River decoys were hollow-carved and featured elaborate paint patterns to best resemble the genuine birds. The decoys were often made of basswood or white pine and had a lightweight body. Illinois River decoys were popular among hunters in the Midwest and were widely used during the 1920s and 1930s.

3. New England was by far one of the most abundant sources of duck decoys due to the rich waterfowl hunting area. The decoys were typically made of white cedar or Atlantic white cedarwood and had a lightweight body. New England decoys were often painted in bright colors and featured intricate feather patterns to mimic the ducks found in the area. The region was home to many famous carvers, including Elmer Crowell, one of the most celebrated decoy makers in history.

Evaluation and Inspection

Evaluation and inspection of duck decoys is a crucial step before making a purchase, as a study found that over 40% of decoys sold as antiques are actually modern replicas.

When evaluating an antique duck decoy, it is essential to handle it carefully and start a slow and detailed inspection.

The condition, provenance, and maker attribution of a duck decoy are major factors that affect its value. Checking the paint and wood consistency and texture, as well as the overall pattern, for signs of age is also crucial.

Inspecting the eyes is particularly important, as most antique duck decoys have glass eyes. The bottom of the decoy should also be checked for manufacturer's initials or logos and dates of manufacture. Specialized books on the subject can be studied to compare pictures and find similar models.

Identifying antique duck decoys is a form of art that requires studying historical pieces and talking to expert collectors.

In addition, collectors should keep in mind that repainting, treating, and varnishing antique decoys should be avoided. It is also crucial to keep antique duck decoys away from the sun and dust, and avoid touching them too much.

If searching for genuine antiques, collectors should choose quality over quantity and look for original paints. Vintage or contemporary carvers' work is a good alternative to antique duck decoys if on a lower budget.

Keeping records of all collectible items, including their history, value, and previous owners, is also important. Finally, considering a decoy collection insurance policy is a wise choice as the value of antique duck decoys can be quite high.

Collecting and Care Tips

To maintain the condition and longevity of waterfowl hunting decoys, collectors should store them in a cool and dry place and periodically inspect them for signs of wear and tear.

It's crucial to protect antique duck decoys from the sun and dust, as well as avoid touching them too much.

Additionally, collectors should refrain from repainting, treating, and varnishing antique decoys. These actions can significantly decrease their value and authenticity.

Collectors should also keep records of all collectible items, including their history, value, and previous owners. This information is essential when it comes to insurance policies or future sales.

Furthermore, it's essential to consider a decoy collection insurance policy. This will protect the collector's investment, especially considering that the most expensive duck decoy ever sold was a Mason Premiere Wood Duck Drake for $690,000.

Overall, collectors should focus on quality over quantity and choose original paints if searching for genuine antiques.