I'm guessing it's a scarecrow of some sort...complete with lipstick, of course. Either to scare humans or birds from the pond???

Either that or your dad is into some serious alternative living. I'm gonna go with option one.

"Only after sorrow's hand has bowed your head will life become truly real to you; then you will acquire the noble spirituality which intensifies the reality of life. I go to an all-powerful God. Beyond that I have no knowledge--no fear--only faith."