Hand-Carved & Painted Wood Duck Wall Mount Diorama by David Ward 1990 Folk Art

  

Experience an exceptional example of traditional Eastern Shore carving with this large hand-carved & painted Wood Duck diorama by renowned folk artist David Ward, dated 1990 and signed. This striking wall-mount display features a drake wood duck in dynamic landing posture, wings fully extended with deeply incised, hand-cut primaries, perched on naturally weathered driftwood.

Behind him, a hen wood duck peers from a hollowed stump, creating rare two-bird dimensional depth, motion, and storytelling. This is a substantial display piece, measuring approximately 22-24" tall, 18-20" wide across the wings, and projecting about 10-12 off the wall.

It has real presence and reads as a centerpiece from across the room. Early Ward carvings of this complexity are exceptionally scarce. Ward's texturing work on this example is particularly noteworthy: the mill-textured neck and crown, hand-incised feather grouping, stippled breast patterning, multi-layer iridescent wing paneling, and realistic carved webbed feet demonstrate the higher-end techniques collectors actively pursue. The drake's blues and greens show metallic depth, while the hen's mottled flank patterning is well-scaled and shadowed.

Mounted to a single natural piece of driftwood chosen for age, grain, and cavity shape, this sculpture is ready to wall-hang with no base required. Early, signed & dated display dioramas with multiple birds are rarely offered on the open market. No cracks, breaks, wing repairs, loose joints, paint overwork, or restoration noted. Please review all photos for detail.

Collector's Note: Pieces of this age, size, and sculptural complexity from Ward consistently appreciate and are being placed into long-term collections. Paint depth, feather incising, dual-bird composition, and driftwood selection are above average compared to standard single decoys. Decoy & wildlife art displays.

Lodge, cabin, & sporting décor. Shorebird / marsh room installations. This is a standout centerpiece-grade carving that commands attention in person.

Signed & dated 1990 by David Ward. Early Ward example - increasingly scarce.

Professionally boxed using oversized packaging, internal bracing, foam isolation, and corner-shielding. This carving retains its original finish and has never been restored, repainted, or touched-up. It has been kept indoors, away from UV exposure, smoke, and moisture.