Newton Dexter Outstanding Dowitcher Pair

Newton Dexter (1838-1901) and Dr. Clarence T. Gardner (1844-1907) Little Compton, RI, c. 1885

Measuring almost twelve inches long, these boldly carved shorebird decoys exhibit hollow, laminated three-piece, pegged-body construction. One bird has a turned head while the other displays a tucked head; both have carved raised wings and a superb dry original surface. Both are in fine original paint with minor gunning wear.

Provenance: Frank D. Lisle Collection Lawrence Lisle Collection James M. McCleery, M.D. Collection Private Collection

Literature: Hal Sorensen ed., "Decoy Collector's Guide: 1966-67 Annual," Burlington, IA, p. 64, exact shorebird decoys illustrated. Sotheby's and Guyette and Schmidt, "American Waterfowl Decoys: The Distinguished Collection of Dr. James M. McCleery," New York, NY, January 22, 2000, lots 541 and 542, exact birds illustrated. Robert Shaw, "Call to the Sky: The Decoy Collection of James M. McCleery, M.D.," Houston, TX, 1992, pp. 32-33, exact shorebirds illustrated. Robert Shaw, "Bird Decoys of North America," New York, NY, 2010, pp. 165-167, exact decoys illustrated. Gene and Linda Kangas, "Decoys," Paducah, KY, 1992, p. 310, exact decoys illustrated.

Provenance

Frank D. Lisle Collection Lawrence Lisle Collection James M. McCleery, M.D. Collection Private Collection