Blackhead decoy by Joe Dye (1869-1931), Havre de Grace, Maryland. Clean, dry working paint. Original surface appears to remain under the wear. Retains ring but weight has been removed. Full, rounded compact body with an elegant neck carriage. The head is particularly attractive. Historic upper bay decoy.

Joseph E. "Joe" Dye (1869–1931) of Havre de Grace, Maryland, was one of the most accomplished decoy carvers of the Upper Chesapeake Bay and a member of the renowned Dye family of decoy makers. Trained by his father, Captain Ben Dye, he carved primarily working decoys for guides and hunters rather than decorative pieces.
 
Joe Dye's decoys are recognized for their hollow cedar construction, graceful head carving, balanced proportions, and durable, functional design. His paint schemes were simple yet effective, emphasizing realism and longevity over elaborate detail. He carved a variety of waterfowl, including canvasbacks, redheads, black ducks, bluebills, mallards, and Canada geese, with his canvasbacks considered among his finest work.