Ward Brothers Rare Hollow Wigeon Pair

The Ward Brothers Lemuel T. (1896-1984) and Stephen (1895-1976) Crisfield, MD, c. 1948 13 3/4 in. long

Hollow decoys by the Wards are rare and this appears to be a unique pair from the Somers Headley Collection. They can be seen on the wall behind Headley in a classic photo of the early collector.

Each is signed and dated 1948 on the underside by Lem and stamped for the Noyes Museum and the Headley Collection. The hen also has a painted signature by Lem dated 1952.

"The Ward Brothers’ Decoys" authors Gard and McGrath write that “Steve Ward often stated that the widgeon was his favorite bird … this species allowed the Ward brothers to give full expression to their artistry in color and form.” A study of the few gunning Ward wigeon that remain shows that Steve’s preference for the baldpate carried into the exceptional and dynamic carvings he made of this species. In their book, only balsa wigeon from this era are illustrated, emphasizing the rarity of this pair's construction. Original paint with light wear.

Provenance: Somers G. Headley Collection Estate of William S. Sachse

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

Exhibited: Oceanville, NJ, Noyes Museum, 1984

Provenance

Somers G. Headley Collection Estate of William S. Sachse