Early working blackhead drake decoy crafted by renowned Havre de Grace master carver R. Madison Mitchell of Havre de Grace, Maryland (1901-1993). Not signed or dated but believed to be from the early 1940s. Cracked neck but stable. Decoy retains original rigging with a north/south staple. Clean, dry all original paint, showcasing the craftsmanship of Maryland’s most celebrated decoy maker. A fine addition for serious collectors of Upper Chesapeake Bay decoys.

R. Madison Mitchell (1901–1993), often called the “dean of Havre de Grace carvers,” transformed Maryland’s decoy world by producing tens of thousands of finely crafted working decoys over six decades while mentoring a generation of carvers in his workshop. His clean, lifelike style set a standard that blended artistry with function, helping elevate decoy carving from waterfowling necessity to respected folk art. Beyond his own prolific output, Mitchell preserved and promoted Maryland’s decoy heritage, inspiring apprentices, strengthening Havre de Grace’s identity as the “Decoy Capital of the World,” and supporting the establishment of the Havre de Grace Decoy Museum—where his recreated shop continues to educate and inspire.