Benjamin Smith Merganser Hen
Benjamin D. Smith (1866-1946) (attr.) Oak Bluffs, Martha's Vineyard, MA, c. 1920
The catalog record
Benjamin D. Smith (1866-1946) (attr.) Oak Bluffs, Martha's Vineyard, MA, c. 1920 A full-bodied decoy from this revered carver who taught his friend and fellow Oak Bluffs resident Keyes Chadwick (1865-1958) to make decoys. Branded on the bottom "M. Luce Jr." for the Luce rig. Original paint with light gunning wear. The bill, neck seam filler, and a few tail chips have been restored.
Provenance: Stephen H. Churchill Collection
Literature: Stanley Murphy, "Martha's Vineyard Decoys," Boston, MA, 1978, p. 108, plate 85, similar decoy illustrated.
Provenance
Stephen H. Churchill Collection
Comparable sales
The 4 most recent Benjamin Smith Mergansers to cross the block.
| Sold | Condition | Paint | Brought |
|---|---|---|---|
| 27 Mar 2026 | — | Repaint | $3,720 |
| 26 Mar 2026 | — | Repaint | $12,600 |
| Nov 2025 | — | Repaint | $5,400 |
| Jul 2013 | — | Original | $1,380 |
Same maker and species, most recent first. Prices include the buyer's premium. All Benjamin Smith sales