The catalog record
John Horn Oceanville, NJ, c. 1890 11 1/4 in. long
This rare willet displays Horn's pronounced cheek and tail carving, also seen on the turnstone in this sale (lot 154). A rigmate example was collected by John Hillman. Original paint with gunning wear and some touch-up to left front of face.
Provenance: Brian Hartmann Collection
Literature: Sotheby's and Guyette and Schmidt, "American Waterfowl Decoys: The Distinguished Collection of Dr. James M. McCleery," New York, NY, 2000, p. 220, lot 607, related example illustrated. Henry A. Fleckenstein, Jr., "Shore Bird Decoys," Exton, PA, 1980, p. 117, pl. 122, related example illustrated. James R. Doherty, "Classic New Jersey Decoys," Louisville, KY, 2011, p. 175, pl. 388, turnstone illustrated.
Provenance
Brian Hartmann Collection
Comparable sales
The 5 most recent John Horn other shorebirds to cross the block.
| Sold | Condition | Paint | Brought |
|---|---|---|---|
| Feb 2026 | — | Original | $5,100 |
| Feb 2021 | — | Original | $6,600 |
| 23 Jul 2020 | — | Original | $1,440 |
| 25 Jul 2019 | — | Original | $5,100 |
| 25 Jul 2019 | — | — | $420 |
Same maker and species, most recent first. Prices include the buyer's premium. All John Horn sales