Unidentified
Flying Mallard Hen Decoy
Can I see it?
Yes, on view now
Where is “Flying Mallard Hen Decoy” now? Smithsonian American Art Museum, Luce Foundation Center, 3rd Floor, 28A, Washington, D.C. Yes, on view now. Checked September 25, 2026.
Washington, D.C., United States
RoomLuce Foundation Center, 3rd Floor, 28A
On public display.
- Checked
- In this state since
- Source
- The museum
About the sculpture
North American hunters have used decoys for centuries. Native Americans made decoys from reeds, clay, and stuffed skins to lure migrating birds within range of their arrows or spears. European pioneers adopted this technique, and by the early nineteenth century both commercial and sport hunters used carved wooden decoys. Craftsmen shape and decorate decoys either to imitate the desired bird’s prey or “trick” them into thinking it is safe to land.
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Details
- Accession number
- 1986.65.52
What it shows
In the catalog
Sources
- Smithsonian American Art Museum
- Image: Smithsonian American Art Museum — CC0
