Unidentified, Muskrat, before 1997, 1 1⁄2 x 6 3⁄4 x 3 in. (3.8 x 17.1 x 7.6 cm), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Chuck and Jan Rosenak and museum purchase made possible by Mrs. E. C. Hobson, 1997.124.203
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Artwork Details
- Title
- Muskrat
- Artist
- Unidentified
- Date
- before 1997
- Location
- Dimensions
- 1 1⁄2 x 6 3⁄4 x 3 in. (3.8 x 17.1 x 7.6 cm)
- Credit Line
- Gift of Chuck and Jan Rosenak and museum purchase made possible by Mrs. E. C. Hobson
- Classifications
- Subjects
- Animal — muskrat
- Object Number
- 1997.124.203
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.