John Horn Ruddy Turnstone

John Horn Oceanville, NJ, c. 1890 9 1/2 in. long

One of approximately seven Horn turnstones known to exist in original paint, this is the first time that this bird has been offered at auction. While the rarity of exceptional ruddy turnstones cannot be overstated, Horn decoys have not escaped the purview of the world’s top shorebird collectors, having resided on the shelves of the Noyes, O’Brien, McCleery, Giberson, and Doherty collections. This decoy displays pronounced cheek carving, a beautifully contoured body, and a delicate thin tail. With impeccable provenance and striking paint, this is not only one of the finest Horn shorebirds to come on the market, but also one of the finer New Jersey ruddy turnstones. Original paint with light gunning wear.

Provenance: Richard Mueller Collection L. H. LaMotte Collection Private Collection, by descent from the above

Literature: Sotheby's and Guyette and Schmidt, "American Waterfowl Decoys: The Distinguished Collection of Dr. James M. McCleery," New York, NY, 2000, p. 220, lot 606, rigmate illustrated. James R. Doherty, "Classic New Jersey Decoys," Louisville, KY, 2011, p. 175, pl. 388, rigmates illustrated. John M. Levinson and Somers G. Headley, "Shorebirds: The Birds, The Hunters, The Decoys," Centreville, MD, 1991, p. 86, pl. 6-25, related decoy illustrated.

Provenance

Richard Mueller Collection L. H. LaMotte Collection Private Collection, by descent from the above