Oscar Carroll (VA, 1868-1946), Canvasback

Upper Back Bay, Virginia, circa 1900, carved and painted wood

Length 15.75 in.

Carroll decoys are well known today within the decoy collecting community. At the turn of the century, they were highly sought after by Back Bay waterfowlers. Carroll's craftsmanship was notable for its durability—he used cypress wood for both the heads and bodies of his decoys. They were lightweight, rode high in the water, and were remarkably resistant to damage. This particular example features a rare high head.

Combination of original and in-use repaint with moderate wear.