Duck decoys have been around for more than two hundred years therefore they’re deeply ingrained in North American culture. They’re even called ‘folk art’ at times, especially the older pieces, which infuriate those who know why and how decoys were made in the early times. Now they’re more a part of the room decoration that hunting aid, but why would you have to choose between the two uses when you can have a Tom Taber duck decoy that’s perfect for both.

Collectors like vintage duck decoys better because they’re rarer than any of the works of modern carvers. It doesn’t mean that Tom Taber isn’t looked after by the savvy; his works are of extraordinary quality and a flashing sign of his enthusiasm and proficiency. They’re all hand finished and made of the best quality old wood, so you won’t find two exactly identical pieces on the market. Every single one of them has the characteristics of old wood, worm holes, knots and other imperfections. The second thing most people notice when they buy a Taber is the way they’re painted. It’s not even paint most of the times, rather a stain in the wood that lets the grain and details to be seen through the added color, yet the final result is always remarkably life like.

It’s also the reason why hunters may want to pick up a few of them. Each hand carved decoy costs about $30 to $50 for the least interesting pieces, while vintage collector editions may go as high as several hundred dollars, which is definitely not something you’d put on the water while herding waterfowl. Most hunters who choose their spots next to small ponds a bunch of a dozen is probably good enough attraction to shoot ducks.

They’re also adequate addition to any room. It’s good to know that the older the piece the more expensive it is. They also get more expensive if they were made for hunting but were never used. You can also check out online retailers to find pieces that are made for decoration. They’re just as well made as all of his creations, but they may depict species that are not hunted commercially or recreationally. A wooden carving always acts as a centerpiece in a room, so it’s a nice idea to accompany your unique duck decoy with some plants.

Tom Taber started making his own decoys thirty years ago after helping out his uncle with repairing his decoys after the hunting season. His works are not antique yet, but in case you’re into this type of investment you may want to pick one up soon before the price shoots to the thousands.