Early George Washington O'Neal (NC, 1869-1949), Brant

Ocracoke, North Carolina, circa 1900 carved and painted wood.

Length 17.5 in.

George Washington O'Neal was born shortly after the Civil War and is the oldest recognized decoy maker from Ocracoke Island. He is also, arguably, the best.

Original paint, working repairs to neck, heavy age checks on bottom and multiple tighter age checks on back, blunted bill.