Bert Graves The Parmalee and Loomis Graves Mallard Pair

G. Bert Graves (1880-1956) Peoria, IL, c. 1920 17 1/4 in. long

A fine pair of hollow decoys with glass eyes showcasing Catherine Elliston's (1849-1953) original paint. They both retain their "G.B. Graves" impressed lead-strip weights and "P" brands for the Puckaway Club.

This pair was acquired by Paul Parmelee and Forrest Loomis for their Ph.D research and the pair was split when the project was complete. The current owner has reunited these Puckaway Club rigmates. Excellent original paint with even gunning wear, each with a tight age line in back of neck. Hen has touch-up to left eye putty, and under tail along body seam. Drake has some touch-up around body seam on left breast.

Provenance: Puckaway Club (pair) Paul Parmalee and Forest Loomis Collection (pair) Kirk Whaley Collection (hen) Peter Van Tright (drake) Private Collection, NY (pair)

Literature: Stephen O'Brien and Julie Carlson, "Masterworks of the Illinois River," Boston, MA, 2005, pp. 98-100, related decoys illustrated.

Provenance

Puckaway Club (pair) Paul Parmalee and Forest Loomis Collection (pair) Kirk Whaley Collection (hen) Peter Van Tright (drake) Private Collection, NY (pair)