Ward Brothers Sleeping Bluebill

The Ward Brothers Lemuel T. (1896-1984) and Stephen (1895-1976) Crisfield, MD, 1972 13 in. long

An exceedingly rare life-size bluebill carving in a sleeping posture. The bottom of the carving bears both brothers' inked signatures along with the inscription "L. T. Ward Bros. - 1972 -."

“The famous decoy contest in 1948,” writes Quintina Colio on the heritage of decoys, “was held in the Grand Central Palace, New York City, sponsored by Schaefer Brewing Company and the winner was the Ward Brothers, from Crisfield, Maryland. Renowned judges included Wm J. Mackey Jr., Lynn Bogue Hunt and Dr. Edgar Burke.” Joel Barber was also a judge. The Wards’ winning decoy was a related balsa-bodied sleeping mallard drake illustrated in Gard and McGrath’s book. Even with this high-profile endorsement, sleepers remained exceedingly rare in the Ward's extensive portfolio. Original paint with minimal wear.

Provenance: Private Collection, Maryland

Literature: Ronald J. Gard and Brian J. McGrath, "The Ward Brothers' Decoys: A Collector's Guide," Plano, TX, 1989, p. 84, pl. 77, sleeper illustrated.

Provenance

Private Collection, Maryland