Mason standard grade mallard decoy in working repaint. Rigging has been removed.
 
Mason Decoy Factory, founded around 1896 in Detroit, Michigan, was one of the first companies to mass-produce duck decoys using a combination of hand and machine labor. The factory remained active until about 1924. It was started by William J. Mason, a businessman who saw commercial opportunity in the increasing demand for hunting gear, especially waterfowl decoys.
 
Standard Grade Decoys
The Standard Grade was Mason's most affordable and widely distributed line of decoys. It was intended for working hunters, as opposed to collectors or high-end clientele.
 
Material: Carved from solid or hollow wood (typically white pine or cedar).
Paint: Simple but well-executed paint patterns; less detail than higher grades but still effective.
Glass eyes: Many had glass eyes, though some early or economy models were tack-eyed or had painted eyes.
Form: Characteristically smooth, rounded bodies with relatively stylized head shapes.