This contemporary cormorant decoy by Rich Smoker marries practical Chesapeake Bay deadrise construction with bold Northwest Coast motif carving, resulting in a masterpiece that appears a century old at first glance. The integrated keel with inset ballast is incorporated into the body harkening back to the days of hand-built Chesapeake Bay workboats. Carving elements about the face and bill are reminiscent of Northwest Coast motifs used on totem poles and wooden sculptures. This world-renowned carver has won many carving awards over his career and was named a 2019 NEA National Heritage Fellow. This bold and innovative carving measures just over 20” long and would make a stunning addition to any serious collection. It is signed and dated 2025 on the underside.
This contemporary cormorant decoy by Rich Smoker marries practical Chesapeake Bay deadrise construction with bold Northwest Coast motif carving, resulting in a masterpiece that appears a century old at first glance. The integrated keel with inset ballast is incorporated into the body harkening back to the days of hand-built Chesapeake Bay workboats. Carving elements about the face and bill are reminiscent of Northwest Coast motifs used on totem poles and wooden sculptures. This world-renowned carver has won many carving awards over his career and was named a 2019 NEA National Heritage Fellow. This bold and innovative carving measures just over 20” long and would make a stunning addition to any serious collection. It is signed and dated 2025 on the underside.
