Early Hooded Merganser, Eastern Shore Virginia

This is folksy hooded merganser was likely carved in Chincoteague, Virginia. It appears to have been carved from a cypress knee. The head turns slightly to the right and sets nicely on a neck shelf. This old decoy deserves a prominent place on the shelf, maker unknown.

Length 13 in.

Worn original paint; some wood decay on right side; end of the bill is chipped.