Ike Phillips The Bull-hunter Phillips Black Duck

Ike Phillips (1858-1954) Hog Island, VA, c. 1900 15 1/2 in. long

A strong Northampton County decoy with wide hips, a ridged back, and a long neck seat above a narrow breast. Recognized and coveted by Roy Bull and Charlie Hunter, among others, this is among the finest Phillips decoys known. Phillips was a guide who worked the barrier islands up and down the Eastern Shore. He eventually abandoned his island home when it eroded and settled in the seaside town of Wachapreague, Virginia. Original paint on the head with a dark wash on the body, with even gunning wear.

Provenance: Roy Bull Collection Charlie Hunter Collection Private Collection

Literature: Dr. S. Lloyd Newberry, "Wings of Wonder: The Remarkable Story of the Cobb Family and the Priceless Decoys They Created on Their Island Paradise," Columbia, SC, 2020, p. 195, Phillips decoys illustrated.

Provenance

Roy Bull Collection Charlie Hunter Collection Private Collection