Makers / Doug Jester / Other

Doug Jester The Hunter Black Skimmer

Doug Jester (1876-1961) Chincoteague, VA, c. 1910

Doug Jester – The Hunter Black Skimmer – 2025
$5,400
Brought, including buyer's premium
Estimate $4,500–$6,500
Sold Jul 2025at Copley, July 2025

See this lot at Copley →

SpeciesOtherSize17.5"PaintOriginal

The catalog record

Doug Jester (1876-1961) Chincoteague, VA, c. 1910 17 1/2 in. long

Much like tern decoys, skimmer decoys are virtually nonexistent. This carving was likely used to lure "cutwaters" or "scissor-bills" within range to be harvested for the millinery trade. The underside has the imprint of Charlie Hunter's collection tag. Original paint with even wear. Some possible restoration to left side.

Provenance: Charlie Hunter Collection Private Collection, Virginia

Literature: Henry Fleckenstein, "Southern Decoys," p. 98, related shorebird illustrated.

Provenance

Charlie Hunter Collection Private Collection, Virginia

Comparable sales

No comparable sales for this lot.

Same maker and species, most recent first. Prices include the buyer's premium. All Doug Jester sales