Ruddy Ducks (1981-1982 Federal Duck Stamp Print)
Limited edition print (lithograph) on paper, housed in a collector frame with stamp • John S. Wilson (1939–2015)
Style & Movement
Wildlife Realism (Naturalism)
Medium & Technique
Color lithography; reproduction of an original painting using high-precision offset printing or lithographic press
Creation Period
1981
Dimensions & Format
Landscape format; typical print size approximately 6.5 x 9 inches (image), framed to approximately 12 x 14 inches
Subject Description
A pair of Ruddy Ducks (male and female) floating on water with detailed reflections. The male is depicted in breeding plumage with a bright blue bill and stiff tail feathers elevated; the female is shown behind in more muted brownish tones. The composition is a classic profile view tailored for philatelic reproduction.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good to Very Good; visible light foxing/spotting on the mount board suggests environmental exposure
Estimated Market Value
$100 - $250 USD
Auction Estimate
$75 - $150 USD
Provenance History
Part of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's Federal Duck Stamp program; typically sold through specialized wildlife art galleries or directly to collectors of 'Duck Stamp' editions.
Art Historical Significance
John S. Wilson's design won the prestigious 1981 national competition for the Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp. The program is vital for American conservation history, funding the acquisition of wetlands. Within Wilson's oeuvre, this remains his most widely recognized and distributed image.
Notable Features
Hand-signed by the artist in the lower right margin; hand-numbered (15758/16000) in the lower left; includes the matching 1981-1982 $7.50 Federal Duck Stamp mounted below the print.
Condition Issues
Visible foxing (small brown spots) on the matte/mount board indicates humidity exposure; potential light fading of pigments if not kept under UV-protective glass.
Conservation Recommendations
Remount using acid-free, archival museum board to prevent further acid burn; replace glass with UV-protective museum glass; maintain in a climate-controlled environment away from direct sunlight.