Ward Brothers "sunbathing" Yellowlegs In Four Stages

The Ward Brothers Lemuel T. (1896-1984) and Stephen (1895-1976) Crisfield, MD, 1965 10 in. long, 10 in. tall

This yellowlegs in a rare "sunbathing" position was inspired by the work of John James Audubon as is referenced by a metal plaque mounted on the signed and dated base. The carving displays significant attention to detail in form and paint. In addition to the feature carving itself, this lot includes Lem's 1982 drawing of the bird, the original pattern, and a single block profile cutout with a paint sketch to demonstrate how the bird was made. Original paint with light wear.

Provenance: Dr. Morton D. Kramer Collection, acquired from the artist

Literature: Glenn Lawson and Ida Ward Linton, "The Story of Lem Ward," Exton, PA, 1984, pp. 124-125, exact carving illustrated.

Exhibited: Salisbury, Maryland, The Ward Museum, 2020-2023.

Provenance

Dr. Morton D. Kramer Collection, acquired from the artist