Makers / Ward Brothers / Canvasback
Ward Brothers Sleeping Canvasback
The Ward Brothers Lemuel T. (1896-1984) and Stephen (1895-1976)
$1,200
Brought, including buyer's premium
Estimate $2,500–$3,500under estimate
Sold Feb 2024at Copley, February 2024
SpeciesCanvasbackPoseSleeperSize14"PaintOriginal
The catalog record
The Ward Brothers Lemuel T. (1896-1984) and Stephen (1895-1976) Crisfield, MD, 1973 14 in. long
Though they made thousands of decoys, the Ward Brothers' sleepers and preeners are rare and coveted.
The date and Lem and Steve's signatures are exhibited on the underside of the hollow body. Original paint with light wear and minor craquelure to wing tips and tail.
Provenance: Private Collection, Florida
Provenance
Private Collection, Florida
Comparable sales
The 5 most recent Ward Brothers Canvasbacks to cross the block.
| Sold | Condition | Paint | Brought |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Oct 2026 | — | Original | $2,040 |
| 1 Oct 2026 | — | Original | $720 |
| 6 Aug 2026 | — | Original | $840 |
| 30 Jul 2026 | — | Repaint | $630 |
| 25 Jul 2026 | Excellent | Original | $11,400 |
Same maker and species, most recent first. Prices include the buyer's premium. All Ward Brothers sales