Nathan Cobb, Jr. Black Bellied Plover

Nathan F. Cobb, Jr. (1825-1905) Cobb Island, VA, c. 1880

A classic Cobb shorebird decoy with an incised "A" on the underside, from the rig of Nathan Cobb, Jr.'s younger brother, Albert. "A F Cobb, Cobbs Island, VA...- 1886" is faintly written on the bottom. A "W.H.P. JR" brand is also on the underside for the Purnell collection. The shorebird displays carved eyes, a through-splined bill, and V-cut wing tip and tail definition. The decoy shows distinct lines and very similar form to the famous Cobb running curlew held in the Purnell collection. Appears to be original paint worn to the wood in small areas, even gunning wear, and an age line in the head.

Provenance: William J. Mackey Collection William H. Purnell, Jr. Collection, acquired from the above, c. 1968

Literature: William J. Mackey, Jr., "American Bird Decoys," New York, NY, 1965, p. 153. Henry A. Fleckenstein, Jr., "Southern Decoys," Exton, PA, 1983, p. 208, plate 443, rigmate illustrated.

Provenance

William J. Mackey Collection William H. Purnell, Jr. Collection, acquired from the above, c. 1968