John Blair, Sr. Wigeon Drake
John Blair, Sr. (1842-1928) Philadelphia, PA, c. 1880
The catalog record
John Blair, Sr. (1842-1928) Philadelphia, PA, c. 1880 14 3/4 in. long
This hollow wigeon is not only of the finest Delaware River decoys known to exist but also one of the finest widgeon decoys from any region. Decoys of this form are known as the "Classic Blairs" and are considered the most desirable of the entire Philadelphia School of carving. Excellent original paint with even gunning wear, minor dents near top of head.
Provenance: William Butler Collection Donald Kirson Collection
Literature: Hal Sorenson, "The Blair Mystery," Decoy Collector's Guide, Burlington, IA, 1977, p. 73, exact decoy illustrated. Loy S. Harrell, Jr., "Decoys-North America's One Hundred Greatest," Iola, WI, 2000, p. 179, related decoy illustrated.
Provenance
William Butler Collection Donald Kirson Collection
Comparable sales
The 5 most recent John Blair, Sr. Wigeon to cross the block.
| Sold | Condition | Paint | Brought |
|---|---|---|---|
| Feb 2026 | — | — | $10,200 |
| Mar 2022 | — | — | $10,800 |
| Jul 2017 | Excellent | Original | $102,000 |
| Jul 2017 | — | Original | $2,640 |
| 24 Jul 2016 | Excellent | Original | $4,800 |
Same maker and species, most recent first. Prices include the buyer's premium. All John Blair, Sr. sales