James R. Best The Best Swimming Swan

James R. Best (1866-1933) Kitty Hawk, NC, c. 1910 26 in. long

Concerning an upright Best swan, Kroghie Andresen writes, "The form and shape are unmatched by other North Carolina carvers." Discussing the straight-head Best swan in the Museum of American Folk Art's decoy publication, Jeff Waingrow states, "The swan decoy by James R. Best ranks with the finest of this rare type." This is believed to be the only Best swimming swan known to exist. Working repaint with gunning wear, lower part of bill replaced, old nails securing neck, age lines, and flaking.

Provenance: Davison B. Hawthorne Collection Henry H. Stansbury Collection, acquired from the above

Literature: Kroghie Andresen, "Gunnin' Birds," Charlotte, NC, 2008, front and back dust jacket, and p. 300, related straight heads illustrated.

Hal Sorenson, "Decoy Collector’s Guide," Oct.-Dec. 1964, p. 21, related straight head illustrated.

Jeff Waingrow, "American Waterfowl Decoys," New York, NY, 1985, pp. 14-15, related straight head illustrated.

Provenance

Davison B. Hawthorne Collection Henry H. Stansbury Collection, acquired from the above