
Description
American Folk Art Reimagined: A Print of a Duck Decoy by Arthur Nevin
This lithograph print of a Redbreasted Merganser decoy is a compelling piece that bridges the worlds of American folk art, natural history, and modern printmaking. Created by the artist Arthur Nevin in circa 1970, this work is a tribute to a quintessential piece of Americana. The print is specifically inscribed with "Redbreasted Merganser, Beach Haven, N.J., 1935," suggesting it is a portrait of a specific, historical decoy, placing it within a tradition of documenting and celebrating folk art objects.
Arthur Nevin (1929–2012) was a master printer and artist who had a lifelong connection to the wildfowl decoys he so often depicted. Born in New York, Nevin's interest was sparked during his youth while hunting with his father on the eastern shore of the United States. He was particularly influenced by the collection of Joel Barber, one of the earliest and most significant collectors of decoys. This early exposure led Nevin to confine much of his professional work to the etching and painting of these objects, which he considered to be "the only true original American art form."
The print, numbered 102 out of 150, captures the simple yet elegant form of the decoy. Decoys were originally carved from wood by hunters and fishermen to attract wildfowl. Over time, their functional purpose gave way to an appreciation for their sculptural quality and regional variations. Nevin's meticulous printmaking technique allows him to highlight the decoy's unique contours and textures, transforming a rustic, utilitarian object into a subject of fine art. The inclusion of the location and date, Beach Haven, N.J., 1935, anchors the artwork in a specific moment and place, celebrating the individual craftsmanship of the original carver. This work is a testament to Nevin's belief in the aesthetic value of decoys and his commitment to preserving this unique aspect of American heritage through his art.
Dimensions: 23 5/8 inches x 30 5/8 inches x 5/8 inches
(Ref: NY8167-A-iam)
Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: EXCELLENT
Dimensions:
Height: 23.63 in.
Width: 30.63 in.
Depth: 0.63 in.
Category: Reproduction Prints
Origin: United States
Materials: Paper
Creator: Brand: Arthur Nevin
Shipping:For an exact shipping quote, please email us at help@chairishauctions.com with your zip code. Exact shipping costs are dependent on destination, but can range between $230-$1500 for large/bulky items shipped to the continental United States. Note: there may be additional charges for ferry destinations. No local pickup for this auction. International: No International Shipping for this auction. Location: This item ships from Downingtown, PA
Your purchase is protected:
In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Chairish Auctions specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Chairish Auctions within 5 days of receiving the item.
This lithograph print of a Redbreasted Merganser decoy is a compelling piece that bridges the worlds of American folk art, natural history, and modern printmaking. Created by the artist Arthur Nevin in circa 1970, this work is a tribute to a quintessential piece of Americana. The print is specifically inscribed with "Redbreasted Merganser, Beach Haven, N.J., 1935," suggesting it is a portrait of a specific, historical decoy, placing it within a tradition of documenting and celebrating folk art objects.
Arthur Nevin (1929–2012) was a master printer and artist who had a lifelong connection to the wildfowl decoys he so often depicted. Born in New York, Nevin's interest was sparked during his youth while hunting with his father on the eastern shore of the United States. He was particularly influenced by the collection of Joel Barber, one of the earliest and most significant collectors of decoys. This early exposure led Nevin to confine much of his professional work to the etching and painting of these objects, which he considered to be "the only true original American art form."
The print, numbered 102 out of 150, captures the simple yet elegant form of the decoy. Decoys were originally carved from wood by hunters and fishermen to attract wildfowl. Over time, their functional purpose gave way to an appreciation for their sculptural quality and regional variations. Nevin's meticulous printmaking technique allows him to highlight the decoy's unique contours and textures, transforming a rustic, utilitarian object into a subject of fine art. The inclusion of the location and date, Beach Haven, N.J., 1935, anchors the artwork in a specific moment and place, celebrating the individual craftsmanship of the original carver. This work is a testament to Nevin's belief in the aesthetic value of decoys and his commitment to preserving this unique aspect of American heritage through his art.
Dimensions: 23 5/8 inches x 30 5/8 inches x 5/8 inches
(Ref: NY8167-A-iam)
Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: EXCELLENT
Dimensions:
Height: 23.63 in.
Width: 30.63 in.
Depth: 0.63 in.
Category: Reproduction Prints
Origin: United States
Materials: Paper
Creator: Brand: Arthur Nevin
Shipping:
Your purchase is protected:
In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Chairish Auctions specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Chairish Auctions within 5 days of receiving the item.
Condition
Original Condition Unaltered; Some Imperfections; EXCELLENT
Buyer's Premium
20%
Arthur Nevin Red-Breasted Merganser Duck Decoy Print
Estimate $460-$980
Starting Price
$460
LiveAuctioneers Purchase Protection
Vetted auction houses
Secure, online bidding
Returns guaranteed for misrepresented listings
Dedicated support when you need it
Timeless Finds
Feb 20, 2026 7:00 PM ESTNew York, NY, United States
TOP
































