Charles Perdew The Masterworks Preening Pintail Hen

Charles H. Perdew (1874-1963) Henry, IL, c. 1925 14 1/4 in. long

“This graceful decoy is rare,” writes "Perdew" author Ann Lacy of the nearly identical rigmate and the only known comparable. She continues, “...both as a Pintail sleeper and as an unusually fine example of Edna’s subtle yet distinctive painting style. Note the wispy curls of the white along the bars of the speculum and the bold delineation of the feathers across the back between the wings... Judging by its condition this decoy may never have been placed in the water.”

Of their many styles, the Perdews are most revered for Charlie’s masterful preening decoys finished with Edna’s best paint. Both Robert Elliston and Charles Perdew felt that the presence of these turned-head forms added a suggested calm to the rig that was more enticing to waterfowl. Whether this actually made any difference to the circling birds is subject to debate; however, the graceful pose inherent in these styles is certainly desirable among collectors.

Along with its rigmate, many consider this carving to be the finest Perdew pintail known to exist. Excellent original paint with minimal wear and a faint age line in the bill.

Provenance: Joe and Donna Tonelli Collection Jim Cook Collection, acquired from the above Masterworks of the Illinois River Collection, acquired from the above

Literature: Stephen B. O'Brien Jr. and Julie Carlson, "Masterworks of the Illinois River," Boston, MA, 2005, p. 79, exact decoy illustrated. Ann Tandy Lacy, "Perdew: An Illinois River Tradition," Muncie, IN, 1993, front dust-jacket cover, related mallard illustrated, p. 147, Cook Collection rigmate illustrated. Exhibited: Peoria, Illinois, “American Decoy: The Invention,” Peoria Riverfront Museum, February 9–April 28, 2019. Salisbury, Maryland, “The Illinois River Meets the Chesapeake,” Ward Museum of Wildfowl Art, September 2-November 13, 2005.

Provenance

Joe and Donna Tonelli Collection Jim Cook Collection, acquired from the above Masterworks of the Illinois River Collection, acquired from the above