
Vintage Hand-Carved Wooden Swan Decoy
This is a substantial hand-carved decorative swan decoy, likely crafted from a light-colored wood such as pine or cedar with a natural, stained finish that highlights a prominent linear grain. The piece measures approximately 15 to 18 inches in length and features a gracefully arched S-curved neck. A distinctive characteristic is the two-piece construction, visible by the horizontal seam where the upper and lower halves of the body were joined. The head is detailed with glass or painted eyes and a beak finished in a contrasting reddish-pink pigment. The surface showcases a textured, wire-brushed patina that mimics the appearance of weathered driftwood or feathers. No immediate maker's marks are visible on the exterior, though such pieces often have signatures on the flat underside. The overall condition appears excellent with no visible cracks or major losses, suggesting a late 20th-century origin, likely 1970s-1990s. The craftsmanship reflects a high-quality decorative folk-art style, balancing realistic anatomy with an artistic, stylized finish.
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Estimated Value
$450 - $650
Basic Information
Category
Folk Art / Collectible Decoys
Appraised On
January 12, 2026
Estimated Value
$450 - $650
Item Description
This is a substantial hand-carved decorative swan decoy, likely crafted from a light-colored wood such as pine or cedar with a natural, stained finish that highlights a prominent linear grain. The piece measures approximately 15 to 18 inches in length and features a gracefully arched S-curved neck. A distinctive characteristic is the two-piece construction, visible by the horizontal seam where the upper and lower halves of the body were joined. The head is detailed with glass or painted eyes and a beak finished in a contrasting reddish-pink pigment. The surface showcases a textured, wire-brushed patina that mimics the appearance of weathered driftwood or feathers. No immediate maker's marks are visible on the exterior, though such pieces often have signatures on the flat underside. The overall condition appears excellent with no visible cracks or major losses, suggesting a late 20th-century origin, likely 1970s-1990s. The craftsmanship reflects a high-quality decorative folk-art style, balancing realistic anatomy with an artistic, stylized finish.
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