Makers / Louis Rathmell / Black Duck
Louis Rathmell Black Duck
Louis C. Rathmell (1898-1974), Danbury, CT, c. 1945
$1,750
Brought, including buyer's premium
Hammer $1,400Estimate $1,000–$2,000
SpeciesBlack DuckSize17.5"
The catalog record
Black Duck Decoy Louis C. Rathmell (1898-1974) Danbury, CT, c. 1945 17 1/2 in. long
An elegant turned-head black duck decoy with a cork body, thick wooden bottom board, and inset tail. Similar to the work of fellow Connecticut carver Shang Wheeler, Rathmell's mastery of cork is nearly unmatched. Original feathering to head with working paint to body and even gunning wear, including some dents.
Provenance: Estate of Edwin Schultz
Provenance
Estate of Edwin Schultz
Comparable sales
The 5 most recent Louis Rathmell Black Ducks to cross the block.
| Sold | Condition | Paint | Brought |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 Oct 2026 | — | Original | $3,120 |
| 25 Jul 2026 | Excellent | Original | $8,400 |
| 24 Jul 2026 | Mint | — | $33,000 |
| 24 Apr 2026 | Excellent | Original | $25,200 |
| 15 Nov 2025 | — | Original | $9,600 |
Same maker and species, most recent first. Prices include the buyer's premium. All Louis Rathmell sales