Harry V. Shourds Black Duck Tip Up

Harry V. Shourds (attributed) Tuckerton, NJ, c. 1900 One of the earliest tip-ups we have ever seen. Two carved duck legs with feet were attached by the carver adding to its folk art appeal. A hollow rear half of a decoy, the cross section of the body is sealed with a wooden bottom board, retains a lead weight and an anchor loop. The decoy has layers of old gunning paint with flaking and crazing. There is an age crack in the back and along the body seam. One quarter of the webbing from one foot and one half of the other is missing.

Provenance: Private Collection, Princeton, New Jersey

Provenance

Private Collection, Princeton, New Jersey