Mason Decoy Factory Blue-winged Teal Pair

Mason Decoy Factory (1896-1924) Detroit, MI, c. 1920 12 in. long

An exceptional pair of glass-eye Mason teal with round inletted weights. A partial brand from "Oakland Farm" and a partial ink stamp from "Coot Farm" are visible on the bottom of each. Oakland Farm was a 450-acre Vanderbilt estate in Portsmouth, Rhode Island. The estate was inherited by William Vanderbilt III from his father, Alfred Vanderbilt, who was lost at sea when the "Lusitania" was sunk in 1915. Oakland Farm was known for its fine stable of horses and fox hunts. With two large ponds on the estate, it also was ideal for duck hunting. The Oakland farm brand has also been found on a few Crowell black duck decoys. Oakland Farm was sold in the 1940s after Governor William Vanderbilt's failed bid for reelection.

"Coot Farm" designates the Roger D. Williams Collection, from another well-known Rhode Island family. Original paint with light gunning wear, hen has some neck filler loss.

Provenance: William Henry Vanderbilt III Collection Roger D. Williams Collection Private Collection, Georgia

Provenance

William Henry Vanderbilt III Collection Roger D. Williams Collection Private Collection, Georgia