Thomas Gelston Tieger Long-billed Curlew

Thomas H. Gelston (1850-1924) Quogue, Long Island, NY, c. 1880 18 3/4 in. long

Thomas Gelston shorebird decoys in original paint are prized by collectors. In fact, among all of the exceptional shorebirds and waterfowl from Long Island, it is a Gelston curlew that holds the region’s auction record. This grand long-billed curlew displays a high and uplifted head and raised wings. Original paint with light gunning wear, several areas of touch-up, including back of head, neck crack, top of back and right wing. Wear to left wing tip. Replaced bill.

Provenance: David Tieger Collection Linda Johnson Collection, acquired from the sale of the above

Literature: Harvey Kahn, et al., "Spiritually Moving," New York, NY, 1998, no. 46, exact decoy illustrated. Quintina Colio, "American Decoys," Ephrata, PA, 1972, p. 54, Mackey-O'Brien example illustrated. William J. Mackey Jr., "American Bird Decoys," New York, NY, 1965, p. 47, pl. 82, Mackey-O'Brien example illustrated.

Provenance

David Tieger Collection Linda Johnson Collection, acquired from the sale of the above