Joseph Sieger High-head Canvasback Drake

Joseph Sieger (1871-1959) Tustin, WI, c. 1910 16 in. long

"A remarkable canvasback, part of a small rig by Joseph Sieger of Tustin, Wisconsin, is one of the finest figures ever discovered in the state. Its graceful proportions lend an alertness and elegance to the piece." — Ronald Swanson discussing a rigmate, “The Decoy as Folk Sculpture,” 1987

This early, hollow decoy with an applied bottom board is an example of Sieger’s best work. Indeed, the underside bears the McCleery Collection ink stamp. Rigmates have been collected by the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Center and Donal C. O'Brien Jr., among others. A related decoy was selected for the "Wisconsin Decoys" special exhibition at the 2004 National Antique Decoy Show. Original paint with even gunning wear, including some flaking, mostly to left breast, tight age line along right side.

Provenance: Dr. James M. McCleery Collection Lew Horton Collection

Literature: Sotheby's and Guyette and Schmidt, "American Waterfowl Decoys: The Distinguished Collection of Dr. James M. McCleery," New York, NY, January 22–23, 2000, lot 119, exact decoy illustrated. Robert Shaw, "Bird Decoys of North America," New York, NY, 2010, p. 255, rigmate illustrated. Ronald S. Swanson, “The Decoy as Folk Sculpture,” Cranbrook Academy of Art Exhibition Catalog, January 1987, p. 43, fig. 67, rigmate illustrated and discussed.

Provenance

Dr. James M. McCleery Collection Lew Horton Collection