Wood Decoys?

Bought these at a rural Wales auction (which coincidentally saw some eye watering hammer prices on many lots).

First two birds ( duck? half size and swan? 1/3rd size) look scratch built/carved, bird of prey (full size/damaged wing) looks more professional (has no means of fixing to a pole if used for scaring), last (ducks 1/4 size) looks mass market and possibly for garden use. Unsure what to look for and would appreciate any comments on use and species.

Thanks, Steve.

 

I am offended when people call these goofy creations decoys

 

Glad I've offended someone then, my count for the day was pretty low until now!

 

Hopefully you didn't pay much

 

that said number 2 and 3 are excellent wood carvings !!!

 

I'm with you on that, decoys must not only look, at least to a bird, reasonably like the species being hunted, but actually resemble a species one is likely to hunt.

 

Well, to be fair, they caught the species they were intended to

 

Number two strikes me as very interesting,almost like something that was on a carousel.No,I don't think its a decoy,I think its BETTER than a decoy ! Number 3 is cute.

 

Yes they did. First two are hand carved, the second has the body and neck carved from one piece of wood and has traces of old paint. I never dismiss folk art out of hand, but was unsure whether these pieces were meant to be decorative or functional.

The raptor also seems hand carved but somehow more commercial.

And no, didn't pay a lot and will do fine out of the auction including these.

 

Check this site out. http://guyetteanddeeter.com/

 

The 2nd is a decoy, IMHO, due to the 3 weight holes on the bottom. The others are just for decor.

Andy

 

Ohhhh, you just offended Terry !!!!!

But you may be on to something.....