Alfonso Fonnie Tillet Bluebill Hen

Alfonso "Fonnie" Tillet (1881-1954) Kitty Hawk, NC, c. 1930 13 1/2 in. long

A very rare working bluebill decoy by market gunner, boat builder, and carver Alfonso Tillet. This high-head decoy was Andresen's first pick from the rig of Tillet's son-in-law Harry Hamilton. In original paint with heavy gunning wear.

Provenance: Harry Hamilton Rig Roy Willis Collection, acquired from the widow of the above, c. 1975 Kroghie Andresen Collection, acquired from the above in 2003

Literature: Kroghie Andresen, "Gunnin' Birds," Charlotte, NC, 2008, p. 287, Tillet and Hamilton discussed.

Provenance

Harry Hamilton Rig Roy Willis Collection, acquired from the widow of the above, c. 1975 Kroghie Andresen Collection, acquired from the above in 2003