Ward Brothers Half-sized Mallard Pair

The Ward Brothers, Lemuel T. (1896-1983) and Stephen (1895-1976) Crisfield, MD, 1947

An exceptional and early pair of standing, half-sized, balsa mallards displaying glass eyes, carved bill detail, inserted raised "peach basket" wing feathers, and a pleasing light patina. Signed "Lem Ward -1947-" on the front of each circular base. Each measures eight-and-one-quarter inches. In original paint, the drake has a minor bill chip and touch-up to repaired left edges of both feet.

Literature: Ronald J. Gard and Brian J. McGrath, "The Ward Brothers' Decoys: A Collector's Guide," Plano, TX, 1989, plates 109 -111, pp. 125 and 126, similar examples illustrated.