Mason Factory, (MI, 1896-1924), Premier Grade Mallard

Detroit, Michigan, circa 1920s, carved and painted wood, notched bill carving, nail carving at the end of bill, carved line that separates head and bill, mandible groove and carved nostrils, glass eyes.

Length 17.5 in.

From the Collection of a Gentleman, Durham, North Carolina

Premier Grade represent the highest level of craftsmanship produced during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These decoys are celebrated for their exquisite hand-carved details, vibrant and meticulously applied paint, and realistic glass eyes that lend them a lifelike appearance. Often designed with added features such as extended tail carving and more intricate feather detailing, crafted to be both functional hunting tools and works of art.

Original paint with moderate gunning wear, tight a stable hairline on top of the bill.