Counterfeiting the Counterfeiters

$27.95

Stephen W. and Lemuel T. Ward, Jr.—the Ward Brothers—are legendary in the decoy world as self-proclaimed “Wildfowl Counterfeiters in Wood.” Acclaimed decoy carver Rich Smoker has long admired their work, and in this book he explains how you can carve and paint three decoys in the Ward Brothers’ style. Using a variety of tools and techniques—both hand and power tools—and painting with oils and acrylics, Rich provides step-by-step explanations so you can create your own instant classics.

About the Author

Rich Smoker grew up on the Susquehanna River in Pennsylvania and developed an interest in waterfowl at an early age. In 1982 he moved to Maryland and became invested in the legacy of Lem and Steve Ward. Since then he has carved thousands of birds and has also become an active carving teacher. In competition, Rich has won more than 500 ribbons, including more than 100 best in show titles. Among his many honors, in 2016 Rich was named one of the Ward Foundation’s Living Legends for his service to the Ward Museum and Foundation, his many accomplishments in the world of decoy carving, and his commitment to teaching the craft and continuing the heritage of carving. One of Rich’s proudest accomplishments was being awarded a National Endowment for the Arts National Heritage Fellowship in 2019.