John Dilley Dowitcher

John Dilley Quogue, Long Island, NY, c. 1890 This shorebird decoy was the cover lot of Richard A. Bourne's 1979 summer decoy sale catalog. With its full body and slightly split-tail carving, this decoy features the intricate and precise feathering that Dilley collectors covet. Fine original paint with tight craquelure and minimal gunning wear.

Literature: Richard A. Bourne Co., Inc., "Rare American Bird Carvings, Decoys & Duck Stamps," Hyannis, MA, July 11, 1979, lot 848, exact shorebird decoy illustrated on front cover. Timothy R. Sieger and Dr. Cynthia Byrd, "The Decoys of Long Island," Water Mill, NY, 2010, p. 46, related decoy illustrated.