Red-Breasted Merganser
Marblehead, MA, c. 1860
15 in. long
A pert sheldrake with refined articulation and stylish paint. The uplifted head retains its thin original crest. The body has a pinched breast, defined wing carving, and an uplifted tail.
The quality of craftsmanship as well as the attitude of this decoy are reminiscent of fellow North Shore Massachusetts mergansers from the rigs of Captains Samuel Augustus Fabens (1814-1899) and Charles C. Osgood (1820-1886). Diverting from the aforementioned North Shore masterworks, this bird has more articulated carving detail.
Original paint with moderate gunning wear, including rub to top of crest and reset hairline crack in bill.
Provenance: Private Collection, Midwest
Literature: Gwladys Hopkins, "Massachusetts Masterpieces: The Decoy As Art," Lincoln, MA, 2016, p. 76, Osgood merganser drake illustrated.
Copley Fine Art Auctions, "The Sporting Sale 2012," Plymouth, MA, July 13, 2012, lot 366, Fabens merganser illustrated.
Condition
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