Hiram Hy Hotze Mallard Hen

Hiram "Hy" Hotze (1886-1977) Peoria, IL, c. 1930

This hollow Illinois River mallard decoy displays all the aspects of the maker's master craftsmanship, including its original rigging.

Originally collected in lieu of payment for medical services by an Illinois doctor, this decoy descended to his daughter, the spouse of Jim Fowler, noted zoologist and host of the Emmy Award-winning "Mutual of Omaha's Wild Kingdom." Original paint with gunning wear and chip out of underside of bill.

Provenance: Dr. E. C. Burhans Collection Betsey Burhans Fowler Collection

Literature: Stephen O'Brien and Julie Carlson, "Masterworks of the Illinois River," Boston, MA, 2005, p. 115, similar decoys illustrated. Alan Haid, "Decoys of the Mississippi Flyway," Exton, PA, 1981, p. 172, similar bird illustrated.

Provenance

Dr. E. C. Burhans Collection Betsey Burhans Fowler Collection