Rare Preening Hen Eider, Gus Wilson, Mount Desert, Maine, 1900-1920

the paint of decoy is in good original condition with typical evidence of working wear; two in-letted or cast weights in the bottom; the bold head and neck were carved from one piece of wood and then securely inset into the body; carved eyes, typical of Wilson; with the hot brand collection identification KANGAS. No repairs or replacements.

Hank and Judy of Norman, Tennessee
The Collection of Gene and Linda Kangas, Ohio

natural wear; tail shot over.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Augustus Aaron "Gus" Wilson was born on September 8, 1864 in Tremont, a small coastal town on Mount Desert Island. He grew up along the ocean, and much later entered the lighthouse service at age fifty. It is recorded that he was a boat builder, outdoorsman, sportsman, and waterman.  The 1900 Maine census lists Gus Wilson as a fisherman and a 1909 merchant directory also identifies his occupation as a fisherman on Mt. Desert Island. His first appointment as a lighthouse attendant was in 1915. Gus completed his years of service retiring in the fall of 1934 at the age of seventy. Sixteen years later, Gus Wilson died on June 20, 1950. He was eighty-three.

Gus Wilson is considered the pre-eminent decoy maker from Maine and one of the most important of all North American makers, and his life's work has been well-documented in almost every decoy book and folk art book which includes the subject of decoys. Wilson is recognized for sculpting his dramatic working decoys in an interesting array of life-like positions. This rare hen eider, circa 1900-1920, portrays a mature bird in the act of preening its feathers--which is an intentional visual sign of relaxation and contentment to live waterfowl - "This is a safe place."