Ward Brothers Black Duck

The Ward Brothers Lemuel T. (1896-1984) and Stephen (1895-1976) Crisfield, MD, 1936 17 in. long

A fine sculpture, this black duck with a slightly turned head received national acclaim as it was chosen (along with the previous lot) for the 1978 Paul Shertz print that depicted "the 11 favorite working decoy models of Lem and Steve Ward." The underside displays both of the brothers' signatures, the inked inscription "1936 L. T. Ward - Bro. Crisfield, MD," and "This decoy is on the Shertz print." Branded "MK" designating the Kramer Collection.

In second coat of Ward paint with light wear and a reset bill.

Provenance: Dr. Morton D. Kramer Collection

Literature: Lemuel T. Ward Jr. and Paul Shertz, "The Decoys of Lem and Steve Ward," printed by Phototype Engraving, Philadelphia, PA, 1978, exact decoy illustrated.

Provenance

Dr. Morton D. Kramer Collection