Mason shorebird decoys from RJG Antiques

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About Mason Shorebird Decoys The Mason Decoy Company (Detroit, MI; 1896-1924) was the most successful commercial maker of gunning decoys. They offered a full line of shorebird decoys in two grades: Glasseye and Tackeye. They are solid-bodied and most have iron nail bills. The earliest examples have wooden bills. Glasseye paint patterns were most elaborate. Hunting of most shorebird species was banned by the Federal Migratory Waterfowl Act in 1918, so surviving examples are rare. Learn more about Mason Decoys.

	Mason Glasseye Passenger Pigeon in Immature Plumage Ca. 1900 Rare example in strong original paint with deep feather swirling. Minor restoration of a sliver on the base. Large size and rose colored breast suggest an immature passenger pigeon. Less than a half dozen are known. Pictured "Mason Decoys," page 119.
	12" long. Click on any image to enlarge it.	SOLD ITEM #16804
	Early Mason Glasseye Yellowlegs With Split Tail And Wooden Bill Ca. 1895 Exceptionally rare handmade decoy in excellent original condition with original paint and bill. Tiny tail chip on base of tail. Made out of a flawed piece of wood with original filler under the paint on both sides. Branded "JHD" for John H. Dunham.
	11" long. Click on any image to enlarge it.	$7,500 ITEM #15924
	Mason Glasseye Mourning Dove Decoy Ca. 1910 Fat-bodied example in nearly mint original condition. Elaborate paint detail including primary feathering and back sponging. Has 10 tiny holes in the breast. Some minor touchup around bill. Pictured "Mason Decoys," page 112.
	11" long. Click on any image to enlarge it.	$8,500 ITEM #15715