In addition to operating a barbershop together, brothers Stephen and Lemuel Ward also worked as a team to create expressive and realistic decoys; Steve carved the bodies and Lem painted them. The Ward brothers learned decoy making from their father, and their greatest output, which consisted primarily of solid-bodied pintails, widgeons, goldeneyes, and an occasional Canada goose, was during the Depression era. After World War II, the brothers turned their talents to decorative carvings, which they sold and also entered successfully into competitions.

Stacy C. Hollander, "Pintail Drake," in American Anthem: Masterworks from the American Folk Art Museum (New York: Harry N. Abrams in association with American Folk Art Museum, 2001), 366.

Object information is a work in progress and may be updated with new research. Records are reviewed and revised, and the American Folk Art Museum welcomes additional information.　

To help improve this record, please email photoservices@folkartmuseum.org