Hiram Hy Hotze Mallard Pair

Hiram "Hy" Hotze (1886-1977) Peoria, IL, c. 1930 16 1/4 in. long

This hollow Illinois River mallard pair displays all of the elements of the maker’s refined craftsmanship and Jack Franks' original signature paint. Franks was employed to paint not only Hotze's decoys, but also many of Charles Shoenheider's best decoys as well. These carvings have elegant wing tips, which draw back to a sharp point, abruptly dropping into the spade tail. Franks saved some of his most elaborate paint detail for his hens, which feature intricate "cut brush" stippling throughout most of the body. Proud of his work, Hotze is known to have signed and dated the inside of some of his hollowed bodies. Original paint with moderate gunning wear, including some rubs.

Provenance: Private Collection, Washington State

Literature: Stephen O'Brien and Julie Carlson, "Masterworks of the Illinois River," Boston, MA, 2005, p. 114, similar decoys illustrated. Alan Haid, "Decoys of the Mississippi Flyway," Exton, PA, 1981, p. 172, similar bird illustrated.

Provenance

Private Collection, Washington State