Charles S. Clark The Earnest-nelson Clark Greater Yellowlegs

Charles S. Clark (1869-1947) Chincoteague, VA, c. 1890 11 1/2 in. long

This stately yellowlegs was collected by Adele Earnest and has remained in distinguished collections ever since. Indeed, this prime humpback example represents the maker's best work. With a long original bill, slightly turned head, ridged back, and bold features, it ranks among the finest Accomack County shorebirds known.

The carving bears the Grant Nelson Collection stamp on the underside. Excellent original paint with light gunning wear. Left side has tail chip and two spots of working white touch-up.

Provenance: Adele Earnest Collection Alvin E. Friedman-Kien Foundation Collection, acquired from the above Grant Nelson Collection Private Collection

Literature: Adele Earnest, "Folk Art in America," Exton, PA, 1984, p. 142, exact decoy illustrated. Christie's New York, "Property from The Alvin E. Friedman-Kien Foundation," January 19, 2007, lot 398, exact decoy illustrated. Joe Engers, ed., "The Great Book of Wildfowl Decoys," San Diego, CA, 1990, p. 153, rigmate illustrated. Copley Fine Art Auctions, “Classic Shorebird Decoys featuring Milton C. Weiler’s Original Watercolors from The Peterson Collection,” Exhibition Catalog, November 2025, pp. 32-33, related plover illustrated. Milton C. Weiler, "The Classic Decoy Series: A Portfolio of Paintings," New York, NY, 1969, pl. 14, related plover illustrated.

Provenance

Adele Earnest Collection Alvin E. Friedman-Kien Foundation Collection, acquired from the above Grant Nelson Collection Private Collection