John Blair, Sr. Early Swimming Wigeon

John Blair Sr. (1843-1929) Philadelphia, PA, c. 1870 14 1/2 in. long

An exceptionally hollow, round-bottomed Delaware River decoy with a thin neck, swimming posture, and plump form. This early decoy is held tightly together with cut finish nails. The excellent sculpture was finished with the stylish paint pattern that has come to define the Philadelphia style. Original and working paint with touch-up and moderate gunning wear, including age lines at nails. Restoration to tail edge and bill.

Provenance: Private Collection, Washington State

Literature: Loy S. Harrell, Jr., "Decoys-North America's One Hundred Greatest," Iola, WI, 2000, p. 179, related decoy illustrated. Hal Sorenson, "The Blair Mystery," Decoy Collector's Guide, Burlington, IA, 1977, p. 73, related decoy illustrated.

Provenance

Private Collection, Washington State