Bob Kerr Preening Redhead Drake

Robert G. Kerr (1935-2025) Smith Falls, Ontario, Canada 12" long

Kerr began carving decoys in the 1950s, initially making working birds for his own hunting. He attended his first decoy competition in Syracuse, New York, in 1960, where he saw the level of carving being produced by other competitors and returned home determined to improve his work. Kerr soon became an important figure in the emerging competition-carving movement and competed alongside fellow Smiths Falls carvers John B. Garton and Clarence Miller.

Kerr left his career as a railroad fireman in 1975 to become a full-time carver, producing both working decoys and decorative carvings. He became a frequent competitor at major shows and was honored as a Ward World Championship Living Legend in 2018. Kerr was also among the early Canadian carvers whose work helped establish the Smiths Falls tradition within the broader North American competition-carving movement.

Hollow carved competition decoy. Carved bill details and glass eyes. Scratch paint across the body and carved primary feathers. Relief carved wingtips. Kerr hot brand in the bottom.

Condition: Very good and original