Salesman's Sample Black-Bellied Plover
Mason Decoy Factory (1896-1924)
Detroit, MI, c. 1900
10 1/4 in. long
A one-of-a-kind salesman's sample shorebird decoy by the Mason Decoy Factory inscribed "Black Breast Plover, $7.50. Dz." on the underside. This "A-1" grade shorebird decoy exhibits breeding plumage in its painted feather detail with early swirled and stippled paint. The bottom is also stamped "McCLEERY."
Historically, salesmen would carry examples of the decoys illustrated in the catalog when pursuing orders for their company. This example was one of six salesman's sample decoys, each a different species, acquired by noted New Jersey collector, Mort Hanson.
Original paint with minor wear.
Provenance: Mort Hanson Collection
Dr. James M. McCleery Collection
Mark Smith Collection
Literature: Sotheby's and Guyette and Schmidt, "American Waterfowl Decoys: The Distinguished Collection of Dr. James M. McCleery," New York, NY, 2000, p. 67, lot 131, exact decoy illustrated.
Condition
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