Cooper Predmore Rare Pectoral Sandpiper

Cooper Predmore Barnegat, NJ, c. 1900 8 1/2 in. long

A rare and delicate shorebird with excellent provenance and history. This decoy hails from both the Lloyd Johnson and John Hillman Collections. It was also selected by James Doherty for his "Classic New Jersey Decoys" book.

The long thin bill and small form of this rare species separate this bird from most other shorebird decoys. Peeps and plover have much shorter bills, and virtually all of the other sandpiper decoys are notably larger. Original paint with light gunning wear.

Provenance: Lloyd Johnson Collection John Hillman Collection Private Collection, New Jersey

Literature: James R. Doherty, "Classic New Jersey Decoys," Louisville, KY, 2011, p. 147, exact decoy illustrated. Sotheby's and Guyette and Schmidt, "American Waterfowl Decoys: The Distinguished Collection of Dr. James M. McCleery," New York, NY, January 22–23, 2000, p. 221, lot 610, related example illustrated.

Provenance

Lloyd Johnson Collection John Hillman Collection Private Collection, New Jersey