Ward Brothers Early Black Duck

The Ward Brothers, Lemuel T. (1896-1984) and Stephen (1895-1976) Crisfield, MD, c. 1932

A large, turned-head black duck displaying the animated head and body features associated with the Bishop's Head Gun Club decoys, including the well-defined bump under the tail. The fine head carving is a bold precursor to the Wards' ‘36 model, and rests on a high raised neck seat. The decoy has a high back and is augmented by an original bottom board. The surface features blended paint on the head and sharp feather painting on the body. Original paint with even gunning wear.

Provenance: David Fannon Collection Richard Gove Collection

Literature: Ronald J. Gard and Brian J. McGrath, "The Ward Brothers' Decoys: A Collectors Guide," Wolfe City, TX, 1989, pp. 70-79.

Provenance

David Fannon Collection Richard Gove Collection