J. N. Dodge Decoy Factory (1883-1893)
Detroit, MI, c. 1885
12 1/2 in. long

A Dodge shorebird preserved in remarkable condition retaining its original long tail and bill. Mackey illustrates two closely related examples in his "American Bird Decoys" book and remarks, "Conformation and paint patterns make identification difficult." Mackey suggests his related decoy may be a red-backed sandpiper, also know as a dunlin, in winter plumage. "Detroit Decoy Dynasty" authors Dodge and Sharp illustrate a closely related example leaning towards a red knot identification. The contemporary authors also discuss the upswept underside of the bill and suggest it may have been how the bird left the factory. This is one of the finest Dodge shorebirds to ever be offered at public auction.
Outstanding dry original paint with minimal wear.

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

Literature: Decoys Unlimited Inc., "Spectacular Summer Decoy Auction" July 15th & 16th, 2012, front catalog cover and p. 124, lot 555, closely related example illustrated.Ron Sharp and Bill Dodge, "Detroit Decoy Dynasty," Lawsonville, NC, 2009, p. 187, closely related example illustrated and discussed.William J. Mackey Jr., "American Bird Decoys," New York, NY, 1965, p. 213, closely related decoys illustrated and discussed.

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.