Mason Decoy Factory Early Special Order Canada Goose

Mason Decoy Factory (1896-1924) Detroit, MI, c. 1900 24 in. long

This is perhaps Mason's earliest goose model and features special head and neck construction. This carving displays a bill section inlaid down through the top of the head. The head is removable and set on an angled dowel. Goldberger and Haid discuss a closely related carving, noting, "This one has a unique special-order, take-apart head." Making this decoy perhaps only the second known example of this special model. On the subject of the rarity of goose decoys made by the factory, the authors also point out that "Mason discontinued making goose decoys in 1913 and suggested that customers buy their brant decoys instead. Good wood for the large bodies was just too hard to find!"

In addition to the bird's special construction, it features the best qualities of the more common Mason geese, including a grand body with strong swirl paint and fine premier-grade head carving. The underside bears "LH BEERS" and "FHM" brands, and the museum code "A51.59" is painted in red on the rear left flank. Original paint with gunning wear including some flaking, checks along lower left side, small chip to top left corner of special bill joint.

Provenance: Walter L. Bush Collection Collection of a New York City Museum, acquired from the above in 1953

Literature: Russ J. Goldberger and Alan Haid, "Mason Decoys: A Pictorial Guide, Updated Edition," Lewes, DE, 2003, p. 80, closely related decoy illustrated.

Provenance

Walter L. Bush Collection Collection of a New York City Museum, acquired from the above in 1953