This exquisite, highly collectible limited-edition print is titled "The Decoys of Lem and Steve Ward" (often recognized by its central motif celebrating their legendary work as "Wildfowl Counterfeiters in Wood"). Printed in 1978 by Phototype Engraving in Philadelphia, this piece captures the intricate beauty and timeless craftsmanship of traditional American decoy carving. Surrounding central portraits of the master carvers, the composition showcases a stunning array of meticulously detailed waterfowl species—including pintails, canvasbacks, mallards, and Canada geese—rendered with remarkable precision and earthy tones.
Numbered and hand-signed in pencil by artist Paul W. Shertz, alongside the signature of master carver Lemuel T. Ward Jr., this specific piece carries exceptional authenticity and provenance. It stands as a profound tribute to the heritage of Chesapeake Bay watermen and the elevated art of decoy making. Whether you are a seasoned collector of sporting art, an enthusiast of American folk history, or looking for a striking focal point for a rustic study or cabin, this framed print offers a rare window into a cherished craftsmanship tradition.
About the People
The legacy of this artwork is rooted in the genius of the Ward brothers, Lemuel T. ("Lem") Ward (1896–1984) and Stephen ("Steve") Ward (1895–1976), hailing from Crisfield, Maryland. Operating out of their iconic workshop, the brothers transformed ordinary working decoys into breathtaking works of art, earning global renown as pioneers of modern wildfowl carving. Their hyper-realistic wooden creations imitated nature so flawlessly that their decoys were affectionately dubbed "counterfeiters in wood," capturing the absolute essence of live waterfowl and forever changing the landscape of American folk art.
Collaborating on this definitive visual tribute is artist Paul W. Shertz, who transitioned into a professional fine artist in 1975. Deeply inspired by the rich maritime traditions and working-class heritage of the Chesapeake Bay, Shertz dedicated his brush to immortalizing the legendary carvers and their masterpieces. Through his precise draftsmanship and deep respect for his subjects, Shertz preserves a vital piece of American outdoor history, ensuring that the artistry of the Ward brothers continues to inspire collectors and naturalists alike.
Dimensions
LxH (Inches): 26x22
This exquisite, highly collectible limited-edition print is titled "The Decoys of Lem and Steve Ward" (often recognized by its central motif celebrating their legendary work as "Wildfowl Counterfeiters in Wood"). Printed in 1978 by Phototype Engraving in Philadelphia, this piece captures the intricate beauty and timeless craftsmanship of traditional American decoy carving. Surrounding central portraits of the master carvers, the composition showcases a stunning array of meticulously detailed waterfowl species—including pintails, canvasbacks, mallards, and Canada geese—rendered with remarkable precision and earthy tones.
Numbered and hand-signed in pencil by artist Paul W. Shertz, alongside the signature of master carver Lemuel T. Ward Jr., this specific piece carries exceptional authenticity and provenance. It stands as a profound tribute to the heritage of Chesapeake Bay watermen and the elevated art of decoy making. Whether you are a seasoned collector of sporting art, an enthusiast of American folk history, or looking for a striking focal point for a rustic study or cabin, this framed print offers a rare window into a cherished craftsmanship tradition.
About the People
The legacy of this artwork is rooted in the genius of the Ward brothers, Lemuel T. ("Lem") Ward (1896–1984) and Stephen ("Steve") Ward (1895–1976), hailing from Crisfield, Maryland. Operating out of their iconic workshop, the brothers transformed ordinary working decoys into breathtaking works of art, earning global renown as pioneers of modern wildfowl carving. Their hyper-realistic wooden creations imitated nature so flawlessly that their decoys were affectionately dubbed "counterfeiters in wood," capturing the absolute essence of live waterfowl and forever changing the landscape of American folk art.
Collaborating on this definitive visual tribute is artist Paul W. Shertz, who transitioned into a professional fine artist in 1975. Deeply inspired by the rich maritime traditions and working-class heritage of the Chesapeake Bay, Shertz dedicated his brush to immortalizing the legendary carvers and their masterpieces. Through his precise draftsmanship and deep respect for his subjects, Shertz preserves a vital piece of American outdoor history, ensuring that the artistry of the Ward brothers continues to inspire collectors and naturalists alike.
Dimensions
LxH (Inches): 26x22
