John Blair, Sr. Swimming Wigeon Drake

John Blair Sr. (1843-1929) Philadelphia, PA, c. 1870 14 1/2 in. long

An exceptionally hollow, round-bottomed Delaware River decoy with a thin neck and grand form. This early decoy is held tightly together with cut finish nails. The excellent sculpture was finished with the stylish, crisp paint pattern that has come to define the Philadelphia style. Original with some gunning paint and touch-up with moderate wear, including age lines at nails. Restoration to tail edge and bill.

Provenance: Private Collection, Washington State Matt Geis Collection

Literature: Loy S. Harrell Jr., "Decoys: North America's One Hundred Greatest," Iola, WI, 2000, p. 179, related decoy illustrated. Hal Sorenson, "The Blair Mystery," Decoy Collector's Guide, Burlington, IA, 1977, p. 73, related decoy illustrated.

Provenance

Private Collection, Washington State Matt Geis Collection