Luigi Andreuccetti Pintail Pair

Luigi Andreuccetti (1898-1978) Vorden, CA, 1948 17 1/2 in. long

In the "The Great Book of Waterfowl Decoys," the West Coast contributor Gerald Rosenthal introduces Andreuccetti as "the Sacramento stylist." In addition to being credited with minting a distinct style, the Italian-born carver scorned patterns, creating variety within his portfolio. According to “Wildfowl Decoys of California” author Michael Miller, the carver would hunt for pintails in cornfields under a full moon. His favorite hunting locale was Snodgrass Slough, where he hunted for most of his life.

A classic pair of Andreuccetti pintail made with his higher-grade balsa-on-board body construction and his signature textured surface. They have strong feather paint, incised wing detail, and the maker's signature and date on the undersides.

"He was a charming man who carved charming decoys." — Joe Engers, "The Great Book of Waterfowl Decoys" Original paint with even gunning wear. Drake has spot of working touch-up to left shoulder and hen has scattered spots, mostly to shot holes.

Provenance: Jim Keegan Collection Richard and Dorothy Wheeler Collection, acquired from the above

Literature: Michael R. Miller and Frederick W. Hanson, "Wildfowl Decoys of the Pacific Coast,” Portland, OR, 1989, pp. 339 and 349, exact pair illustrated twice (captions do not match birds). Michael R. Miller, "Wildfowl Decoys of California,” Spokane, WA, 2015, pp. 507-8, related decoys illustrated. Joe Engers, ed., "The Great Book of Wildfowl Decoys," San Diego, CA, 1990, pp. 271-273, maker discussed.

Provenance

Jim Keegan Collection Richard and Dorothy Wheeler Collection, acquired from the above