Charles A. Safford High-head Canada Goose

Charles Safford (1877-1957) Newburyport, MA, c. 1920 26 in. long

This newly discovered hollow Canada goose decoy was recently found in the Carolinas. It adds a new variation to Charles Safford's already impressive goose portfolio. Like some of his most famous examples, including the Evans-Peterson sleeping goose, laminated construction, with at least ten pieces of wood, was used to build its large form. The hollow construction and high head on this decoy make it rare, if not unique. Mix of original and old working repaint with moderate gunning wear. Upper neck seam was resecured.

Provenance: Recently discovered in Eden, North Carolina

Literature: Robert Shaw, "Bird Decoys of North America," New York, NY, 2010, p. 158, Evans-Peterson sleeper illustrated. Gwladys Hopkins, "Massachusetts Masterpieces," Lincoln, MA, 2016, pp. 20-22 and 78-79, Evans-Peterson sleeper illustrated and Safford discussed.

Provenance

Recently discovered in Eden, North Carolina