Ward Brothers Canvasback Hen

The Ward Brothers Lemuel T. (1896-1984) and Stephen (1895-1976) Crisfield, MD, c. 1936 15 3/4 in. long

A classic 1936 model, this fine hen displays a high head with a pronounced crown true to the species. The underside bears the "MADE BY L. T. WARD & BRO. CRISFIELD, MD" ink stamp under the pad weight and is signed and dated "L.T. Ward-Bro-1936- Lem Ward- Steve Ward." This decoy is a rigmate to the drake lot 243; each have matching markings and rigging on the underside. This superb example has a turned head and excellent bill carving. Of the highly coveted 1936 model canvasbacks the Wards produced, it is rare to find a hen with its original bill and tail. The full body, refined head carving, and strong paint combine to make this a highly collectable decoy. Original paint with even gunning wear, a chip to the lower right edge of tail, and neck slightly lifted on right side.

Provenance: Herb Wetanson Collection

Literature: Ronald J. Gard and Brian J. McGrath, "Ward Brothers’ Decoys: A Collector’s Guide," Wolf City, TX, 1989, p. 18, pl. 15, similar decoys illustrated. Glenn Lawson, "The Story of Lem Ward as told by Ida Ward Linton to Glenn Lawson," West Chester, PA, 1984, p. 49, similar decoys illustrated.

Provenance

Herb Wetanson Collection