Leo McIntosh Antiqued Stevens Stle Bufflehead

Drake. Leo McIntosh (1953-2007) Woodville, NY 11" long

Observing the styles of his peers Mark McNair, David Ward, and Bob White, McIntosh ventured into 'antiqued' style decoys. Sometimes taking perfectly beautiful decoys he crafted, like these long tails, and chemically and mechanically aging and distressing them. Further showing McIntosh's artistic variety. Paying homage to one of the earliest decoy makers in Upstate, NY, this is Leo's artistic interpretation of a bufflehead drake by the Stevens Decoy Factory from Weedsport, NY circa the late 1800's. Circular carved eyes with incised bill details and a circular lead poured weight in the underside.

Leo McIntosh is widely regarded as the most recognized contemporary carver from New York. He began his career in 1971 as a painter for Ken Harris (1905-1981) in Woodville, New York, where he quickly developed an eye for form and finish. After five years, he turned his attention to carving his own decorative decoys while still maintaining a presence in the Harris shop. During this period, Leo achieved repeated success on the competition circuit, earning multiple Best in Show awards, including the coveted honor at the 1981 Ward World Carving Championship in Ocean City, Maryland.

Before his untimely passing in 2007, McIntosh had become one of the most sought-after artists of his generation, celebrated not only for his decoys but also for his fish carvings, folk art, and fine flat art.

Condition: Excellent and original as aged by maker, head slightly loose