Makers / Robert Elliston / Canvasback

Robert Elliston Canvasback Drake

Robert Elliston (1847-1925) Bureau, IL, c. 1890

Robert Elliston – Canvasback Drake – 2018
$6,000
Brought, including buyer's premium
Estimate $8,000–$12,000under estimate
Sold Jul 2018at Copley, July 2018

See this lot at Copley →

SpeciesCanvasbackConfigDrakeSize16"PaintOriginal

The catalog record

Robert Elliston (1847-1925) Bureau, IL, c. 1890 16 in. long

Canvasbacks are a rare species for Elliston and this decoy features Catherine Elliston's best feather swirls, blending, and vermiculation. The underside is branded "JHD" and "J.D.M." and stenciled "49." Original paint with gunning wear, touch-up to tight neck seam, and a few spots on white sides.

Provenance: Donal C. O'Brien, Jr. Collection

Literature: Stephen B. O'Brien, Jr. and Julie Carlson, "Masterworks of the Illinois River," Boston, MA, 2005, p. 38, similar decoy illustrated. Donna Tonelli, "Fish and Fowl Decoys of the Great Lakes," Atglen, PA, 2002, p. 114, similar decoys illustrated.

Provenance

Donal C. O'Brien, Jr. Collection

Comparable sales

The 5 most recent Robert Elliston Canvasbacks to cross the block.

SoldConditionPaintBrought
May 2025——$390
Jul 2024—Original$15,600
Jul 2023—Original$5,100
Apr 2023—Repaint$540
Feb 2023—Repaint$1,110

Same maker and species, most recent first. Prices include the buyer's premium. All Robert Elliston sales