Mark McNair Gargatha-style Hooded Merganser Drake

Mark S. McNair (b. 1950) Craddockville, VA, c. 1983 14 1/4 in. long

Ira Hudson's (1873-1949) famous "Gargatha" mergansers were discovered by collectors at a country auction in the eponymous Eastern Shore town of Gargatha in 1983, nearly 80 years after they were created. At the historic sale the auctioneer enlisted McNair to assist him with the sale of the now famous rig. This hands-on experience informed this folky homage.

Incised "J BEETS" and "M" signature on the underside. Original paint with minimal wear.

Literature: Henry A. Fleckenstein Jr., "Southern Decoys of Virginia and The Carolinas," Exton, PA, 1983, pp. 11-15, Gargatha discovery discussed.