Harvey Stevens Rare Mallard Drake

Harvey Stevens (1847-1894) Weedsport, NY, c. 1870

An extremely rare, early style of decoy by this carver who supplied decoys to sportsmen visiting nearby Howland Island, the Montezuma Swamp, and the Finger Lakes. By the mid-nineteenth century, the Stevens Brothers decoys gained national acclaim and were shipping decoys across the country from their workshop near Weedsport along the Erie Canal.

Before the discovery of this important mallard, Stevens' author and historian, Shane Newell, documented only one other early mallard drake tack-eye decoy by this maker.

The bird exhibits painted tack eyes, an early carved groove separating the wings, and Stevens' finest scratch-comb paint along the back. It is in outstanding condition for its age, which is approaching 150 years. Original paint with minimal gunning wear.

Provenance: Private Collection, Massachusetts, acquired in 2008 from an estate auction

Literature: Shane Newell, "The Essential Guide to Stevens Decoys," Warrensburg, NY, 2004, pp. 6 and 65, related decoy illustrated. Adele Earnest, "The Art of the Decoy," West Chester, PA, 1965, p. 139, plate 121, Stevens mallard illustrated.

Provenance

Private Collection, Massachusetts, acquired in 2008 from an estate auction