Ward Brothers Glenn L. Martin Rig Canvasback Pair

The Ward Brothers Lemuel T. (1896-1984) and Stephen (1895-1976) Crisfield, MD, c. 1932 18 in. long

The underside of the drake displays the "GLM" brand for the rig of Glenn L. Martin. An early aviation pioneer, Glenn Luther Martin (1886–1955) was fascinated with flight from a young age, building box kites and using sails on everything from ice skates to wagons, and even his bicycle to move faster with less effort. In 1909, Martin built his first of several airplanes. He founded an aircraft company in 1912, which designed planes for both world wars. Still in business today and now called Lockheed Martin, it is one of the world's largest companies in the aerospace, military, security, and technology industries. Martin also owned the hunting grounds that went on to be known as Remington Farms.

The skill and reputation of Martin as a craftsman appears to have been a motivation for the Wards to create their best work. This Martin-rig canvasback pair exhibits rarely seen features, including pronounced cheeks, incised bill detail, a ridged back, and a flared paddle tail. The hen has a high turned head, and the drake is in a swimming position. Mix of original and repaint with strong original stippling on backs. Hairline cracks on hens breast.. Restoration to less than 2/3rds of drake's bill.

Provenance: Glenn L. Martin Rig Davison Hawthorne Collection (drake only) Private Collection

Literature: Ronald J. Gard and Brian J. McGrath, "The Ward Brothers' Decoys: A Collector's Guide," Plano, TX, 1989, p. 18, related canvasbacks illustrated.

Provenance

Glenn L. Martin Rig Davison Hawthorne Collection (drake only) Private Collection