Mechanical hunting call in the shape of an owl, Italy, 1950s.

Italy late 1950.

Italian hunting decoy from the late 1950s, an owl-shaped ‘automaton’ with mechanical wing movement, used for hunting. The wings are moved by a cord connected to a spring. The cord must be pulled all the way down to make both wings move. Made of plastic, hand painted, the height of the body (without the stand) is 64 cm, the eyes are made of blown glass. The pedestal is made of wood. Used as a bird hunting decoy. The lark decoy was placed at the top of a long pole, with the poacher hidden nearby to move the wings by pulling the cord, making the effect even more realistic. The owl is a predator of several birds, including the skylark. When a skylark in flight spots an owl, it circles above it, to warn the flock of potential danger and it is at this moment that it becomes a target for the hidden hunter. Great-Owl brand, Sport Plast. Made in Italy. 1950s

36” – 92 CM H 13” – 33 CM L 7” – 18 CM D

REF: V1686