Harry L. Cook Bluebill Pair

Harry L. Cook (1909-1993) Vallejo, CA, c. 1930 11 3/4 in. long

A well-documented turned-head pair by Harry Cook. A lifelong resident of Vallejo, California, he worked for his father's painting business starting as a teenager and throughout his life. His father was also a market hunter in San Francisco Bay and taught his son the craft. Cook's painting skills are apparent in the scratch-comb feather detail on the drake's back. The undersides are branded "COOK" and signed and dated by the maker. Both birds are in early gunning paint by the maker.

Provenance: Richard and Dorothy Wheeler Collection, acquired directly from the maker

Literature: Michael R. Miller and Frederick W. Hanson, "Wildfowl Decoys of the Pacific Coast,” Portland, OR, 1989, p. 201, exact pair illustrated. Michael R. Miller, "Wildfowl Decoys of California,” Spokane, WA, 2015, p. 192, exact pair illustrated.

Provenance

Richard and Dorothy Wheeler Collection, acquired directly from the maker