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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 Tackeye Willet in Fall Plumage
Ca. 1910

An essentially mint example. Original black paint remains on the bill. Just like the ones shown in "Mason Decoys," page 105.

12" long.

 
Click on any image to enlarge it.
$8,500
ITEM #16914

Rare Mason Tackeye Split Tail Red Knot in Fall Plumage
Ca. 1895

Superb example in strong original paint with minor flaking. Wooden bill may be a professional replacement. See "Mason Decoys," page 109, for very similar examples. We haven't had a comparable example in years!

10" long.

 
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SOLD

ITEM #16883

Mason Glasseye Dunlin in Spring Breeding Plumage
Ca. 1900

Exceedingly rare in untouched original condition. Factory filled hairline crack on right side. Hit by shot, but in excellent condition. Some black paint remains on the bill, indicating little use. Exact decoy pictured in "Mason Decoys," page 105.



   
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SOLD

ITEM #16869

Classic Mason Glasseye 2-Piece Long-Billed Curlew Shorebird Decoy
Ca. 1905

Stylish, stately decoy in an unusual reaching attitude. Outstanding original paint. Tight hairline crack in base. Minor neck filler replacement. See "Mason Decoys," pages 106-107, for other examples.



     
Click on any image to enlarge it.
SOLD

ITEM #16853

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.
SOLD

ITEM #15715



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