George Boyd Golden Plover

George H. Boyd (1873-1941) Seabrook, NH, c. 1890 10 1/2 in. long

The construction of this plump working decoy indicates that it is a very early example by the maker. The decoy is solid but made from two pieces of continuous grain wood.

The application of thick stipple paint on this decoy, representing winter plumage, is further enhanced by the "wet-on-wet" feather blending. The full range of sepia tints, ranging from light to dark within each stroke, is extraordinary, giving the bird the mottled life-like appearance of the species.

Given the bird's species, grand size, two-piece construction, spectacular stippled paint, and provenance, one would be hard pressed to find a better example. Outstanding original paint with minor gunning wear and repair to right side of bill.

Provenance: Peter Brams Collection Grant Nelson Collection

Literature: Jim Cullen, "Finely Carved and Nicely Painted: The Life, Art and Decoys of George H. Boyd, Seabrook, NH, 1873-1941," Rye, NH, 2009, p. 23, related example illustrated.

Provenance

Peter Brams Collection Grant Nelson Collection