Folding Hollow Yellowlegs
Massachusetts, c. 1910
11 in. long
An exceptionally rare shorebird decoy with a removable head and bill. The body seam is hinged on the belly and latched on the back. The head and bill can be stored inside the hollow of the body for protection from breakage. Both Adele Earnest and William J. Mackey, Jr. were taken with these birds, each illustrating rigmates in their seminal publications. The underside retains the “NELSON” collection stamp. Original paint with minor gunning wear.
Provenance: Grant Nelson Collection
Literature: Adele Earnest, "The Art of the Decoy," West Chester, PA, 1965, p. 105, pl. 94, rigmate decoy illustrated.
William J. Mackey, Jr., "American Bird Decoys," New York, NY, 1965, p. 43, pl. 21, rigmate illustrated.
Richard W. Oliver Auction Gallery, "An Auction of American Bird Decoys at Easton, Maryland," November 6-7, 1985, lot 344, exact decoy illustrated.
Condition
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