Ben Dye (MD, 1827-1896), Bluebill

Perryville, Maryland, circa 1880, carved and painted wood, tack eyes.

Length 12.25 in.

Former collection of Bragg Cox.

Known for crafting classic Chesapeake Bay-style decoys, Dye carved canvasbacks, redheads, teal, and swans, primarily for personal use or sale to local hunters. His decoys featured paddle tails and neck shelves, reflecting the utilitarian needs market gunning during his time.

Original paint worn to bare wood in places, neck crack with slight movement, small chip of the left side of the tail.