Harry V. Shourds The Headley-shourds Curlew

Harry V. Shourds (1861-1920) Tuckerton, NJ, c. 1890 13 in. long

Harry Vinuckson Shourds is the most well-known decoy maker from New Jersey; he is also one of the earliest. In addition to being one of the few professional carvers of his generation, Shourds hunted ducks for market while his wife used the feathers to make pillows and bedding.

A fine Shourds “green rig” shorebird decoy, described as such because of its hue. This curlew displays painted eyes, a splined bill, and exceptional blended feathering. In original paint with gunning wear, a replaced bill, and an age line in neck.

Provenance: Somers G. Headley Collection Dr. Morton D. Kramer Collection

Literature: John M. Levinson and Somers G. Headley, "Shorebirds," Centreville, MD, 1991, p. 82, pl. 6-16 exact bird illustrated.

Provenance

Somers G. Headley Collection Dr. Morton D. Kramer Collection