Edward Ned Burgess Ruddy Duck

Edward "Ned" Burgess (1868-1958) Waterlily, Churches Island, NC, c. 1920 10 1/2 in. long

A rare and celebrated North Carolina ruddy duck with carved bill detail, an extended tail, and a lead-pad weight. This Southern gem, sourced by legendary author Henry Fleckenstein Jr., is one of the finest Burgess ruddy ducks to come to auction. Excellent original paint, light grey may have been a Burgess addition. Touch-up to tight age line on back and to top and tip of bill.

Provenance: Henry A. Fleckenstein Jr. Collection Private Collection, acquired from above Private Collection, New York

Literature: Midwest Decoy Collectors Association, “Fifth Exhibition of Classic Antique Waterfowl Decoys.” April 1983, p. 10, exact decoy illustrated. Kroghie Andresen, "Gunnin' Birds," Charlotte, NC, 2008, p. 167, related examples illustrated. Copley Fine Art Auctions, The Winter Sale 2016, lot 366, exact decoy illustrated.

Provenance

Henry A. Fleckenstein Jr. Collection Private Collection, acquired from above Private Collection, New York