Dovetailed Dowitcher
Massachusetts, c. 1900
9 3/4 in. long

This charming dowitcher was made by one of the greatest of the unknown makers, the same carver as the dovetailed geese and other exceptional shorebirds.

Referring to a rigmate plover in "Massachusetts Masterpieces," author and curator Gigi Hopkins writes, "...its meticulously crafted dovetail joint which allows the head to be slipped on and off...this was a cabinetmaker enjoying his art."

The body and head of this little decoy are joined by a dovetail. This elaborate construction would allow the decoy to be disassembled when not in use, in order to help protect the bill and neck from breakage. The joint currently has movement, but not a full range of motion. The form features incised wings, a long mortise-and-tenon bill, and concave carving under the tail.

Four rigmates are held in the Shelburne Museum in Vermont.
Original paint with even gunning wear and two drips of blood on the underside.

Provenance: The Johnson Collection

Literature: Adele Earnest, "The Art of the Decoy," West Chester, PA, 1965, p. 104, pl. 93, related examples illustrated.Gwladys Hopkins, "Massachusetts Masterpieces," Lincoln, MA, 2016, p. 54, pl. 20, related examples illustrated.

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