Harvey Stevens Early Mallard Drake

Harvey Stevens (1847-1894) Weedsport, NY, c. 1870 15 in. long

An extremely rare, early style of decoy by this New York carver who supplied decoys to sportsmen visiting nearby Howland Island, the Montezuma Swamp, and the Finger Lakes. By the mid-19th century, Stevens Brothers decoys had gained national acclaim and were shipped across the country from their workshop near Weedsport along the Erie Canal.

Before the discovery of this important mallard, Stevens' author and historian, Shane Newell, documented only two other early mallard drake tack-eye decoys by this maker. This recently discovered decoy comes directly from the Estate of Herbert Prakelt, who likely sourced the bird in the Weedsport area, where he hunted. The bird exhibits painted tack eyes, an early carved groove separating the wings, and Stevens' finest scratch-comb paint along the back. It is in outstanding condition for its age, which is approaching 150 years, and this marks the first time it has been offered at public auction.

Stevens heads were fixed to the body with a single screw and virtually all Stevens heads have some movement as a result. Excellent original paint with minimal gunning wear, 1/8th inch spot of touch-up to top of head.

Provenance: Estate of Herbert Prakelt

Literature: Shane Newell, "The Essential Guide to Stevens Decoys," Warrensburg, NY, 2004, pp. 6 and 65, related decoy illustrated. Adele Earnest, "The Art of the Decoy," West Chester, PA, 1965, p. 139, pl. 121, Stevens mallard illustrated. Copley Fine Art Auctions, "The Winter Sale 2017," Charleston, SC, lot 374, closely related decoy illustrated.

Provenance

Estate of Herbert Prakelt