Charles Perdew Rare Wood Duck Pair

Charles H. Perdew (1874-1963) Henry, IL, c. 1945 12 3/4 in. long

An exceptionally rare pair of presentation wood ducks. While the Perdews enjoyed making smaller models of this species, life-size examples to the market have been almost nonexistent. A very closely related pair are held in the Thomas K. Figge Collection and are featured in "Masterworks of the Illinois River." Made during the same period, the Figge pair is also featured in Anne Tandy Lacy's book, "Perdew: An Illinois River Tradition." Lacy records that the Figge pair was originally made for Perdew's good friend Harley J. Hart. Original paint with minimal wear. The drake has a hairline crack and a minor flake in the left side of the neck.

Provenance: Randy Root Collection Herb Wetanson Collection, acquired from the above

Literature: Ann Tandy Lacy, "Perdew: An Illinois Tradition," Muncie, IN, 1993, p. 232, related pair illustrated. Stephen O'Brien and Julie Carlson, "Masterworks of the Illinois River," Boston, MA, 2005, p. 84, related pair illustrated. Bob Odell, "Peter A. Norman," Decoy Collector's Guide, 1964, p. 12, related later drake illustrated.

Provenance

Randy Root Collection Herb Wetanson Collection, acquired from the above