Ward Brothers Exceptional Wigeon Pair

The Ward Brothers Lemuel T. (1896-1984) and Stephen (1895-1976) Crisfield, MD c. 1955 15 in. long

Steve Ward had a special affinity for wigeon, and Lem was known for applying what he called "Fancy Paint" to some choice decoratives, like this pair. Steve designed patterns from what he saw in nature; he appears to have been inspired when he designed the distinct breast and wing tip carving seen here. Excellent original paint with light wear, tight crack in hen's right speculum, craquelure to drake's head, and right feather tip is reset.

Provenance: Private Collection

Literature: Ronald J. Gard and Brian J. McGrath, "The Ward Brothers' Decoys: A Collector's Guide," Plano, TX, 1989, p. 92, pl. 84, related pair described and illustrated.

Provenance

Private Collection