Ben Dye (MD, 1832-1896), Bluebill

Perryville, Maryland, circa 1870s, carved and painted wood.

Length 13 in.

Dye's work reflects the utilitarian needs of market hunting during the 19th century, yet his decoys also displayed a high level of craftsmanship. Today, decoys carved by Dye are considered valuable collectibles and hold historical significance as part of Maryland's rich decoy carving tradition.

Old gunning paint worn to bare wood in places, hit by shot, working repair to the neck, vertical age check in the back of the neck, neck does not move, wear to tail.

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