This is a Canada Goose decoy carved by John Lott Dorsett, (1830-1910), from Point Pleasant , NJ located in the upper end of Barnegat Bay. Dorsett is supposed to have started carving late in life, so I would guess that this hollow bodied goose dates from around 1895 to 1900. The body on this goose is 22 1/4″ long, by 8 5/8 “. There is a chip out from the back,(see photo: it has original paint on it), probably there from construction, as it is where the grain was closest to the center of the tree. Ice dip carved in the middle behind neck. NO tail damage! Bill is complete and unchipped.From the front view it looks like Dorsett stretched the width as much as possible to take full advantage of wide White Cedar stock. Something a decoy carver would understand. Overall the decoy measures 29 1/2”. There are two pad wieghts for this very hollow decoy, secured with copper or bronze nails. Close inspection of the paint shows light feathering (I removed at least one coat of newer overpaint). The neck looks like it has at least one old repair, not surprising for such an old high-necked goose decoy. The stand comes with the decoy, as does the picture of John and Albert (just one of his sons), a copy of an 1890 photo. Condition: besides the notes above, there is crazed, chipped, and worn paint. There is an old brass scew offset under the breast which once held the anchor line leather. The eyes are embossed, the bill has carved nostrils and a carved “nail” at the tip. There is still black overpaint on the head, as can be seen by the white chin edges. This is a rare Goose from the Barnegat/Point Pleasant part of Barnegat Bay, as Dorsett died at 80 years old in 1910 on June 21. One of the largest goose decoys from this area, most of which are 21″ long. Inspection invited, this is a strong decoy, not fragile and it is complete.
I have a low reserve on this decoy, Good Luck!
Visit www.HillmanArt.com for other examples and services. Contact me . Visiting the Cape May County shore? Stop in to see my current inventory of decoys and books, by appointment please. (609-536-2738).
. Winning Bidder: USPS Actual . Contact me after auction for ship quote! It should be about $25. The PO will charge for an oversize box. I pack well and ship fast upon clear payment.
Payment: PayPal, MO (Ships Immed.), Check, When Clear.
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