Ward Brothers 1948 Mallard Pair

The Ward Brothers Lemuel T. (1896-1984) and Stephen (1895-1976) Crisfield, MD, 1942 18 1/2 in. long

A perfectly matched, oversize rigmate pair by the Ward Brothers. Both birds are made of “life raft” balsa with pine heads and inserted wooden tails. Both birds have razor-sharp bills and have had their keels removed. Both are in original paint with even gunning wear. A few small areas of touch-up, including under hen's tail and on seam on left side. Drake has tight line in neck and touch-up to area of right flank.

Provenance: Jeff and Joyce Hay Collection

Literature: Ronald J. Gard and Brian J. McGrath, "The Ward Brother's Decoys: A Collector's Guide," Plano, TX, 1989, pp. 83- 84, similar decoys illustrated.

Provenance

Jeff and Joyce Hay Collection