Artistry of Louisiana Decoy Carvers, Old and Contemporary

Artistry of Louisiana Decoy Carvers, Old and Contemporary
by Harvey J. Lewis

Artistry of Louisiana Decoy Carvers presents decoys old and contemporary made by Louisiana carvers as museum-quality art. With stunning photographs and detailed descriptions, the book illustrates the three basic types of decoys in full size as well as in miniature. An informative chapter on hunting decoys carved by Louisiana’s Old Masters highlights pieces from the largest and best private collection in the state, while another features miniature replicas in the style of the Old Masters made by a number of Louisiana’s best contemporary carvers.

Novice collectors will also find guidance here, such as an essay by Louisiana’s preeminent decoy authority that offers invaluable advice to collectors of Louisiana decoys of all experience levels. Most importantly, this book discusses the existential threats to decoy carving in Louisiana and offers concrete suggestions for saving this unique and culturally important artform from extinction.

About the Author

Harvey J. Lewis is a retired lawyer, duck hunter, and resident of New Orleans. He has been a collector of both antique and contemporary decoys for over forty years.

© 2021 University of Louisiana at Lafayette Press and Harvey Lewis

Hardcover | 108 Pages | 8" x 10" | ISBN: 9781946160737