Lem Ward, Black Duck, 1939

Lem T. Ward (1896-1984), Crisfield, MD. Black duck decoy, branded “Dr. Blackwell”.

Lem and his brother, Steve, learned to carve working duck decoys from their father, who also trained them as barbers. All Ward decoys have flat bottoms and the bodies range from heart shaped to oval. The Wards were known for their outstanding artistic ability and used unique painting techniques, including stippling. Their painting has been called “impressionistic”, as each decoy was unique with its own feathering scheme.