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Pike Decoy

Oscar Peterson

Artwork Details

Pike Decoy
circa 1928
Oscar Peterson
carved and painted wood and painted metal
1 7/16 x 7 11/16 x 1 13/16 in. (3.5 x 19.5 x 4.5 cm);1 7/16 x 7 11/16 x 1 13/16 in. (3.5 x 19.5 x 4.5 cm)
Gift of The Daniel and Harriet Fusfeld Folk Art Collectionn
2002/1.216

Description

Growing up in Grayling, Michigan, an area where fishing was a popular past time, Oscar William Peterson was able to use his talent and skill to support himself. Being an avid fisherman himself, he started carving fish decoys, of which he is regarded as a master. Carving a variety of fish was something he prided himself on in order to interest all fisherman.
Peterson's fish were used for both functional and decorative purposes. His basic design consisted of protruding jaws, curved and slender bodies, as well as realistic coloring techniques. Using wood as his primary material, he also employed metal fittings for fasteners and fins. Peterson made a name for himself among the fishing communities with his decoys. They continue to be sought after by fisherman and collectors alike.
Denise Patterson
Modern and Contemporary Intern
2002

Subject Matter:

Used for both functional and decorative purposes, the decoy of a Pike fish is typical of Peterson’s basic design consisting of a protruding jaw, with a curved slender body and realistic color techniques. Using wood as his primary material, he also employed metal fittings for fasteners and fins.

Physical Description:

Carved wooden decoy of a Pike fish; green along dorsal region with yellow underbelly, spots and flecks of yellow, white, and black.

Usage Rights:

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