Name/Title
Miniature Decoy, Hooded Merganser Drake, Jack Rider (c. 1950)Entry/Object ID
4.44.188Description
With this miniature Hooded Merganser, the famous decoy carver Jack Rider presents the drake's distinctive eye, head shape, and coloration. Rider hand carved and hand painted this miniature.Context
Many decoy carvers also carved miniature waterfowl. These miniatures use the same skill sets as the larger decoys but are purely artistic as they serve no hunting purposes. They are a common addition to the decoy carvers’ range. Because they are ornamental, carvers sometimes use much more elaborate detail in the waterfowl painting. In addition, their smaller size makes them especially attractive to collectors.
Jack Rider (1881-1967) began carving decoys after his retirement as a waterworks employee. He began carving them in 1950, initially carving only drakes. The early examples of Rider’s work did not yet fully reflect the style of his later work. Over the years, as the demand for Rider decoys increased, his style became simpler and more streamlined. His son Vernon Rider (1912-1983) was instrumental in maintaining Jack Rider’s legacy as a talented decoy carver.Collection
Magee Marsh Wildlife AreaLocation
Building
Magee Marsh Visitor CenterOhio State Wildlife Area
Magee Marsh Wildlife Area
