Solomon Beasley (NC, 1850-1935), Hen Redhead

Sea Gull, North Carolina, circa 1880s, carved and painted wood, incised RS.

Length 15.5 in. x 9.5 x 6.75

Formerly from the collection of Robert Sawyer.

Solomon Beasley was a master carver and created some of the finest decoys to come out of Currituck County. They are extremely rare, difficult to find, and examples are found in the finest southern decoy collections. Beasley is known for carving a pronounced pinch where the bill meets the head. It is evident in this example.

Old gunning paint, working repair to the neck.