Unidentified, Merganser Drake Decoy, 20th century, carved and painted wood, 6 5⁄8 x 17 5⁄8 x 5 in. (16.9 x 44.8 x 12.8 cm.), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Herbert Waide Hemphill, Jr. and museum purchase made possible by Ralph Cross Johnson, 1986.65.50
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Artwork Details
- Title
- Merganser Drake Decoy
- Artist
- Unidentified
- Date
- 20th century
- Location
- Dimensions
- 6 5⁄8 x 17 5⁄8 x 5 in. (16.9 x 44.8 x 12.8 cm.)
- Credit Line
- Gift of Herbert Waide Hemphill, Jr. and museum purchase made possible by Ralph Cross Johnson
- Mediums Description
- carved and painted wood
- Classifications
- Subjects
- Animal — bird — duck
- Object Number
- 1986.65.50
Artwork Description
North American hunters have used decoys for centuries. Native Americans made decoys from reeds, clay, and stuffed skins to lure migrating birds within range of their arrows or spears. European pioneers adopted this technique, and by the early nineteenth century both commercial and sport hunters used carved wooden decoys. Craftsmen shape and decorate decoys either to imitate the desired bird’s prey or “trick” them into thinking it is safe to land.