Mark McNair Stavis Breast-preening Black Duck and Head

Mark S. McNair (b. 1950) Craddockville, VA, 1985 14 1/2 in. long

This raised-wing carving in a dramatic preening pose has a hollow body with pegged construction. It was inspired by the artist's observations and encouraged by his early patron. On the underside is the rarely seen incised “M. S. McNair” signature, along with the date and an inscription to the patron. Included in this lot is an unfinished head in the same preening pose, signed, dated, and inscribed to Stavis. Original paint with light wear.

Provenance: The Barrie and Bernice Stavis Collection Private Collection, by descent from the above

Literature: Curtis Badger, "Mark McNair" Wildfowl Carving and Collecting, Harrisburg, PA, Summer, 1993, p. 29, exact decoy illustrated.

Provenance

The Barrie and Bernice Stavis Collection Private Collection, by descent from the above