Nelson Verity (1854-1947) (attr.)
Seaford, Long Island, c. 1900
12 in. long
A fine trio of matching hunting decoys, each bears an "RLD" painted on its underside. Nelson Verity guided guests out of the historic Powell Hotel, which was eventually torn down in 1977. All three birds display lively paint patterns and two-piece construction. The trio is notable for its excellent condition.
Original paint with even gunning wear.
Provenance: Powell Hotel Rig, Long Island
Private Collection
Literature: Henry A. Fleckenstein Jr., “Shore Bird Decoys,” Exton, PA, 1980, p. 70, pl. XLI, related decoy illustrated.
Dr. Cynthia Byrd, “The Decoys of Long Island,” Water Mill, NY, 2010, pp. 43 and 65, exact carvings illustrated twice.
Paul A. Johnsgard, "The Bird Decoy: An American Art Form," Lincoln, NE, 1976, p. 168, fig. 190, rigmate illustrated.
Condition
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