Joseph Lincoln Oversize Canada Goose

Joseph W. Lincoln (1859-1938) Accord, MA, c. 1900 35 in. long

This Canada goose decoy displays Lincoln’s classic lines in a rare magnum format. Part of Lincoln’s genius was his ability to reduce the forms of his waterfowl carvings to their most simple elements. His carvings feature just the lines necessary to capture the essence of the species. His paint patterns were stylized and meant to give passing flight birds the impression of the “real thing” from afar. Lincoln carved elegant high heads for his decoys that give them a stately appearance.

The underside of this oversize carving bears a white label with the following inked inscription: "Solid magnum Canada Goose by Joe Lincoln. Used at Birch Point Gunning Club, Canton Reservoir, Canton, Mass. by Fred and Tom Jones 1915-1935. In collection of T. W. Clines Canton, From Ted Harmon. Oct 14, 1977..."

Measuring over thirty-two inches with a very full body, this grand gander is certainly among the largest wooden decoys Lincoln created. In mix of original and old working paint with gunning wear and old fill to cracks in underside.

Provenance: Fred and Tom Jones Rig T. W. Clines Collection Ted Harmon Collection Lew Horton Collection

Literature: George Ross Starr Jr., M.D., "Decoys of the Atlantic Flyway," New York, NY, 1974, p. 151, fig. 73, related standard-size example illustrated.

Provenance

Fred and Tom Jones Rig T. W. Clines Collection Ted Harmon Collection Lew Horton Collection