Ira Hudson Bickel-rig Turning Black Duck

Ira D. Hudson (1873-1949) Chincoteague, VA, c. 1945 16 in. long

This special-order decoy is one of the three iconic Bickel rig black ducks. Two of which, including this bird, were made with their entire body turning from tip to tail. They were commissioned by Arlen Bickel of Hurffville, New Jersey, while he was on a fishing trip to Chincoteague. The full rig was never fulfilled, with Hudson only sending one shipment in a barrel packed with salt hay.

Discussing this exact decoy and two rigmates, Henry Stansbury states, “Arguably the finest Hudson black ducks are a group with turned heads, exaggerated flared tails and tightly intricate feathering. When arranged correctly, they appear to be swimming in a circle.” Jim Doherty collected the trio of the Bickel birds, including this lot, one other with fully turned form, and one with a turned head. During a visit to the Doherty Collection, Stansbury requested a raised step to take an overhead photo of the turning trio. The image was used to lead off the black duck chapter in his monograph on the maker. Stansbury eventually acquired the other fully turning bird. Excellent original paint with light and even wear, including appealing tight craquelure.

Provenance: Arlen Bickel Rig, acquired from the carver Art Turner Collection, acquired from the estate of the above Jim Doherty Collection, acquired from the above. Private Collection, acquired from the above

Literature: Henry H. Stansbury, "Ira D. Hudson and Family," Lewes, DE, 2002, pp. 58-59, exact decoy illustrated and discussed.

Provenance

Arlen Bickel Rig, acquired from the carver Art Turner Collection, acquired from the estate of the above Jim Doherty Collection, acquired from the above. Private Collection, acquired from the above