Charles Perdew Mallard Drake
Charles H. Perdew (1874-1963) Henry, IL, c. 1950
The catalog record
Charles H. Perdew (1874-1963) Henry, IL, c. 1950 16 in. long
In addition to making decoys and innovative bird calls, Perdew was a market gunner, a trapper, and a carpenter who helped build Chicago’s Worlds Fair of 1893-1894. He also owned a gun shop at one time.
An Illinois River hollow-carved mallard decoy with glass eyes and a lead-strip weight on the underside. This sharp example was rigged, but does not appear to have been used, helping to preserve its excellent condition. Original paint with minimal wear.
Provenance: Private Collection, Washington State
Literature: Ann Tandy Lacy, "Perdew: An Illinois Tradition," Muncie, IN, 1993, p. 215, related decoys illustrated.
Provenance
Private Collection, Washington State
Comparable sales
The 5 most recent Charles Perdew Mallards to cross the block.
| Sold | Condition | Paint | Brought |
|---|---|---|---|
| 14 Oct 2026 | — | — | $2,625 |
| 14 Oct 2026 | — | — | $156 |
| 26 Sep 2026 | — | — | $6,300 |
| Jul 2026 | Mint | — | $168,000 |
| Jul 2026 | — | Original | $13,200 |
Same maker and species, most recent first. Prices include the buyer's premium. All Charles Perdew sales