Purnell-Kirson Cobb Black Duck
Nathan F. Cobb Jr. (1825-1905)
Cobb Island, VA, c. 1880
16 in. long

This rare decoy with impeccable provenance and exceptional surface is the epitome of refinement in a Cobb Island duck decoy. The underside of the well-preserved hollow body bears Nathan's deeply incised and serifed "N" and William Purnell's collection brands. One of the best Cobb black duck decoys known to exist.
Excellent original paint with even gunning wear. Roughness to left side of bill tip, and minor touch-up to small spot of fill on crown.

Provenance: Nathan Cobb Jr. Rig
William H. Purnell Jr. Collection
Donald Kirson Collection

Literature: Dr. S. Lloyd Newberry, "Wings of Wonder: The Remarkable Story of the Cobb Family and the Priceless Decoys They Created on Their Island Paradise," Columbia, SC, 2020, pp. VIII-XI and 236, rigmates illustrated.
Copley Fine Art Auctions, ?The Donal C O?Brien Jr. Collection of Important American Sporting Art and Decoys, Session I-II,? Hingham, MA, July 19, 2018, lot 38, Mackey-O'Brien rigmate illustrated.

Please email condition report requests to colin@copleyart.com. Any condition statement given is a courtesy to customers, Copley will not be held responsible for any errors or omissions. The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition.

16 in