Isaiah Brown High-head Canvasback Drake

Isaiah Brown Port Rowan, Ontario, c. 1890 16 1/2 in. long

This stately canvasback has fine lines that accurately represent this difficult to carve species. Light as a feather, this hollow decoy shows the traits typical for the St. Clair Flats region. The bill reveals intricate incised carving and pronounced cheek carving highlights the head. The bottom has three different owners’ marks, attesting to the bird’s early construction. The “T-BC” brand stands for the Toronto Big Creek Club (1889-1915) on Long Point. Also branded “C” and “JAT.” The latter is for Joseph A. Tonelli. Original paint with even gunning wear.

Provenance: Toronto Big Creek Club Rig Joseph A. Tonelli Collection Donal C. O'Brien, Jr. Collection

Literature: Bernard W. Crandall, "Decoying, St. Clair to the St. Lawrence," Erin, ON, 1988, p. 90, related example.

Provenance

Toronto Big Creek Club Rig Joseph A. Tonelli Collection Donal C. O'Brien, Jr. Collection