Joel Barber Mallard Drake

Joel Barber (1876-1952) Wilton, CT, c. 1948 Designed by Joel Barber in his attempt to create the perfect decoy. The inscription on the bottom reads: “Owned by Disbrow at the time of death (54), Joel for many years tried the all-purpose decoy. This was used for experimental plumage.” The decoy has a laminated cedar body, an inletted mahogany head and is branded “Barber Decoys.” The bird’s paint was taken down, probably by Bill Mackey, to mostly bare wood.

Provenance: William J. Mackey, Jr. Collection The University Club of Milwaukee Decoy Collection

Provenance

William J. Mackey, Jr. Collection The University Club of Milwaukee Decoy Collection