Up for auction is a very early, hollow-carved Slope-Breasted Premier Grade Mallard Hen made by the Mason decoy factory in Detroit, ca. 1895. The lower profile of this decoy is, in our view, the best that Mason produced. This is an example of the earliest hand carved production from this famous factory. Later production was turned on a lathe after 1903. This decoy is in very good original paint with some wear from use including rubs to the bill, top of the h...ead and tail. It also has a tight age check int he back and some slight separation at the midline seam. Neck filler has been replaced and it also has a typical tail chip repair with touch-up evident in both areas. The decoy does have several shot marks and a few dings to be expected in a bird that is 125 years old. The eyes may be replacements. The paint remains very strong with those coveted brush swirls still visible on the body. The speculums remain visible as do the feather loops on the back. The decoy carries a hand carved "N.P.” brand on the bottom . These earliest Mason decoys are very difficult to come by and this is a rare opportunity to add one to your collection. Measures 17” long; 6-1/4” wide; and 6-1/4” tall. Please ask questions or for more pictures. Shipping includes insurance and is higher outside of the USA. Add $10 for shipments to Washington, Oregon, and California. (Sorry…the Postal Service has gotten very pricey for cross country trips.) Thanks for looking.