Dick Allen Canvasback Drake

"Dick" Allen (1891-1971) Vallejo, CA, c. 1925 14 1/2 in. long

Allen hunted San Francisco Bay and the Delta for over fifty years, carving decoys for his own use. Under the fine form is a flush-poured weight which ingeniously doubles as a streamlined line tie. This decoy is featured in both West Coast books; the latter of which confirms that the paint is by the original maker. "Classic repaint by Allen..." and light gunning wear and old chip to underside of bill tip.

Provenance: Dave Hillendahl 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, p. 153, exact carving illustrated. Michael R. Miller, "Wildfowl Decoys of California,” Spokane, WA, 2015, p. 174, exact carving illustrated.

Provenance

Dave Hillendahl Collection Richard and Dorothy Wheeler Collection, acquired from the above