Ward Brothers Broadbill Pair

The Ward Brothers Lemuel T. (1896-1984) and Stephen (1895-1976) Crisfield, MD, c. 1935 15 1/2 in. long

A classic rigmate pair with large bodies that relate to their early hump-back model. Both decoys are signed and dated by Lem and Steve Ward, have a conjoined "MK" brand, and Kramer Collection ink stamps on the bottom. This exact pair of decoys was selected by artist Paul Schertz for his painting of the Ward Brothers and their decoys. They are illustrated in the lower left corner of Schertz's painting, which was reproduced and sold as a print. Original paint with even gunning wear, drake has remnants of working paint on head, bill, and breast.

Provenance: Dr. Morton D. Kramer Collection Private Collection, Maryland Private Collection

Literature: Ronald J. Gard and Brian J. McGrath, "The Ward Brothers' Decoys: A Collector's Guide," Plano, TX, 1989, p. 46, pl. 38, similar decoys illustrated. Paul W. Schertz, Ward Brothers print, 1978, exact decoys illustrated.

Provenance

Dr. Morton D. Kramer Collection Private Collection, Maryland Private Collection