The wooden decoy, a truly American innovation, is symbolic of the American experience and humanity's constantly evolving relationship with nature, particularly American waterfowl. Today, decoys are a recognized and appreciated form of folk art, sought out by collectors and museums across the world.American Decoy: The Invention was the first museum exhibition of its kind to showcase over 200 world class decoys from a number of the most respected collectors and institutions in the country, including Tom Figge, Joe and Donna Tonelli, Ted and Judy Harmon, Dick McIntyre, Shelburne Museum, Ward Museum of Wildfowl Art, and Illinois State Museum.

The history of stoneware vessel production in America and Canada is told along with outstanding photographs of over 300 important pieces from the 18th century forward. Chapters describe the hand-worked method of turning clay into pots, common and uncommon forms, marks and varieties of decoration, the glazes employed, and the firing process. This classic study is welcome in this new edition with current prices.

Sixty great contemporary decoy carvers from North America are highlighted in this illustrated book discussing artist techniques and inspiration. Full-color photographs throughout.

From the earliest inhabitants of the American continent to the boatwrights and carpenters who earned their livings on the shores of the Great Lakes during the Depression, fish decoys have sustained the livelihoods of spearfisherman during the coldest winters.

"In carved and painted wood, bird decoys capture the dynamic spirit of the creatures they represent. Originating as humble tools of the hunter's trade, antique decoys are now treasured as a uniquely North American folk-art form. In this comprehensive reference, expert Robert Shaw chronicles the evolution of hand-carved decoys form 1,500 years ago, when decoys were first crafted by Native American hunter-artist, up through the last great decoy carvers of the twentieth century. Featuring 300 illustrations--including beautiful shot images of decoys from around the United States and Canada, as well as numerous historic paintings and photographs -- this book will appeal to sportsmen, birders, and folk-art enthusiasts alike" --Cover, p. 4.

In this brilliantly acerbic collection of essays--a New York Times Notable Book in 1995--Stanley Crouch confirms that he is one of the most eloquent and unpredictable commentators on race and culture in American society--something already known to anyone who's seen him on 60 Minutes or read his columns in The Village Voice and The New Republic. 288 pp. National media appearances.