Mason Decoy Factory Merganser Pair

Mason Decoy Factory (1896-1924) Detroit, MI, c. 1910 17 in. long

An early challenge-grade pair representing one of the factory’s finest species, showcasing grand crests and masterful paint. Attesting to this, closely related examples can be seen on the dust jackets of multiple factory decoy books. Though weighted, the rigmates were never hunted and exhibit exceptional crisp paint. Indeed, they retain a few traces of the original newsprint which was used as factory packing material. Original paint with minimal wear.

Provenance: A Taunton, Massachusetts Rig Tony Waring Collection Dr. Peter J. Muller Jr. Collection, acquired from the above, circa 1973

Literature: John and Shirley Delph, "Factory Decoys," Exton, PA, 1980, front cover and p. 79, closely related examples illustrated. Russ J. Goldberger and Alan Haid, "Mason Decoys: A Pictorial Guide," Lewes, DE, 1993, dust jacket, closely related examples illustrated.

Provenance

A Taunton, Massachusetts Rig Tony Waring Collection Dr. Peter J. Muller Jr. Collection, acquired from the above, circa 1973