"This one decoy here, extremely sculptural, has a neat little history about it." - Sporting Art Director, Robbie Smith

Discover the unlikely origin story behind this beautifully crafted, sculptural swan decoy by celebrated North Carolina decoy carver, James Best (1866 – 1933). From an ill-fated sailing trip to an incredible art form, this swan is one of eighteen geese carved from the three masts of the schooner, William H. Davidson. Other than a cargo of lumber, the schooner was totally lost. As stated by our Sporting Art Director, Robbie Smith, “It’s just incredible history, incredible art form.” Explore more important decoys in our Sporting Art Auction, which opens for live-online bidding on Thursday, February 27th at 10:00 am. Pre-bidding is available now.

Sporting Art Auction
February 27th at 10:00 am ET