Bufflehead Pair
Ira D. Hudson (1873-1949)
Chincoteague, VA, c. 1940
10 1/2 in. long

These Hudson butterballs are an exceedingly rare find. Acquiring the maker's buffleheads in untouched, original paint is nearly impossible. These slightly turned-head decoys were never rigged and remain in exceptionally fine condition, having resided in museum storage for over sixty years.

The undersides of each unrigged balsa body and their accompanying bases have early painted collector identifications.
Excellent original paint with minimal wear, a ding to drake's bill and hen's tail.

Provenance: Walter L. Bush Collection
Collection of a New York City Museum, acquired from the above in 1953
Private Collection

Literature: Henry H. Stansbury, "Ira D. Hudson and Family," Lewes, DE, 2002, pp. 81-83, related decoys illustrated.

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10.5 in