Mason Decoy Factory Salesman's Sample Robin Snipe

Mason Decoy Factory (1896-1924) Detroit, MI, c. 1905 A one-of-a-kind salesman's sample shorebird decoy by the Mason Decoy Factory inscribed "Robin Snipe, $7.00. Dz." on the underside. This "A-1" grade shorebird decoy exhibits glass eyes, spring to summer plumage in its painted feather detail, as well as an early swirled, stippled, and outlined speculum.

Historically, salesmen would carry examples of the decoys illustrated in the catalog in their pursuit of orders for their company. This example was one of six salesman's sample decoys, each a different species, acquired by noted New Jersey collector, Mort Hanson. Original paint with minor wear, including minor flaking in the bill insertion area.

Provenance: Mort Hanson Collection Private Collection, Midwest

Literature: Russ J. Goldberger and Alan Haid, "Mason Decoys: A Pictorial Guide," Lewes, DE, 1993, pp. 98-99, similar decoys illustrated. Byron Cheever, "Mason Decoys," Spanish Fork, UT, 1974, p. 132, related decoy illustrated in the Mason Factory catalog.

Provenance

Mort Hanson Collection Private Collection, Midwest