PETERSON/ DODGE CANVASBACK DRAKE GRADE 2 WOODEN DECOY c.1890s MINNESOTA

Description

This  solid wood decoy was made by the Peterson / Jasper N. Dodge Decoy Factory in Detroit Michigan, c. 1890s.  It is solid wood, with tack eyes and a “V” notch carved bill, identifying it as a Grade 2.  Measures approx.. 16.5” long and 5” wide. Scalloped paint on collar back. Neck filler is intact with some paint loss. Original lead ballast sheet underneath. Two tight cracks on top of back. Some knot loss and filled gouges on top half and filled cracks on underside. Some paint loss, chipping, and scuffing. Edge of bill is worn and scuffed, some gouges. Please see photos for condition details.
Provenance- In the same family for generations. First used by Warren Willis Sharp, owner of the R.B. Boake Fish Co., of St. Paul, MN., then by his son Robert W. Sharp who was a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service biologist based at Fort Snelling, MN. Used at White Bear Lake, Mille Lacs Lake and other central Minnesota waters. Last image is of W.W. Sharp and several of his decoys, possibly taken at White Bear Lake, c.1910.
Returns accepted only if item is not as described. Questions welcome before bidding!