Elmer Crowell Rare Lesser Yellowlegs

A. Elmer Crowell (1862-1952) East Harwich, MA, c. 1910 9 1/2 in. long

Crowell author and historian Brian Cullity states, "The lesser yellowlegs was a relatively uncommon species to be used as a model for a decoy." On the pattern for this decoy, Crowell identifies the species as "summer yellow leg."

A closely related example with a replaced bill was exhibited in Dr. McCleery's "Call to the Sky" museum exhibition and accompanying book. It was also held back by the McCleery estate from the 2000 sale, along with four other of his best Crowell shorebirds. Original paint with light gunning wear and a replaced bill.

Provenance: Private Collection, Cape Cod

Literature: Sotheby's, "Important American Folk Art, Furniture and Silver," New York, NY, May 2005, front cover and lot 104, McCleery example illustrated. Brian Cullity, "The Songless Aviary: The World of A. E. Crowell & Son," Hyannis, MA, 1992, pp. 60 and 114, pl. 116, Crowell's pattern and related example illustrated. Robert Shaw, "Call to the Sky: The Decoy Collection of James M. McCleery, M.D.," Houston, TX, 1992, pp. 14-15, McCleery example illustrated.

Provenance

Private Collection, Cape Cod