Makers / Thomas Gelston / Yellowlegs

Thomas Gelston Running Yellowlegs

Thomas H. Gelston (1850-1924) Quogue, Long Island, NY, c. 1890

$360
Brought, including buyer's premium
Estimate $800–$1,200under estimate

See this lot at Copley →

SpeciesYellowlegsPoseStandardSize10.5"PaintOriginal

The catalog record

Thomas H. Gelston (1850-1924) Quogue, Long Island, NY, c. 1890 10 1/2 in. long

This Gelston pattern was chosen by the Long Island Decoy Collectors Association as the basis for their logo. The underside bears Joseph French's ink stamp. The tail is finished with a wooden dowel to enhance the carving's structural integrity. Original paint with even gunning wear, a rub to tail, and small areas of old putty to neck, face, and breast.

Provenance: John Hillman Collection Joseph B. French Collection Dr. S. Lloyd Newberry Collection

Literature: William J. Mackey Jr., "American Bird Decoys," New York, NY, 1965, p. 99, related example illustrated.

Provenance

John Hillman Collection Joseph B. French Collection Dr. S. Lloyd Newberry Collection

Comparable sales

The 5 most recent Thomas Gelston Yellowlegs to cross the block.

SoldConditionPaintBrought
Jul 2026—Original$9,600
Feb 2026—Original$4,800
Jul 2024—Original$9,000
Jul 2023—Original$300
Feb 2021—Original$6,000

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