(7) Vintage American Carved Wood Duck Decoys. Two have been converted into statues by the addition of a stand and base, and two are unpainted. 

Largest Size: 15 x 5 x 11 in. 

Duck decoys are man-made objects used by hunters since ancient times to lure waterfowl by creating a false sense of security through the appearance of a safe flock. While early versions were made of clay or organic materials by ancient Egyptians and Native Americans, highly detailed wooden carvings emerged as a distinct North American craft in the 19th Century. Modern production transitioned from wood to papier-mâché and eventually plastic, with current technology often incorporating battery-powered motion to simulate realistic movement like spinning wings. Beyond their practical use, decoys have become recognized as a significant form of folk art, a movement sparked by collector Joel Barber in 1918 and furthered by several influential books on the subject. This appreciation has driven the collector market to record heights, with master-carved antique pieces by artists like A. Elmer Crowell selling for over one million dollars since 2007.

All items are sold AS IS. Lot and condition details are for descriptive purposes only. Sarasota Estate Auction is not responsible for errors and/or omissions of condition. The absence of a condition report does not imply that the lot is perfect or free from wear, flaws, or characteristics of age. Please bid according to your own expertise, or request any additional information and/or photographs you deem necessary.