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 been in museum storage for over sixty years.

The undersides of the bases bear the painted inscription "Bufflehead / Made by Ira N. [sic] Hudson Chincoteague [sic], Virginia / Balsawood."
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

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

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