Questions & Answers
Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions
What is the difference between fine and folk art?
1 Answer

The difference between fine and folk art comes down primarily to function. Fine artists produce paintings, prints, sculptures and other artworks to express an idea or concept, communicate a message or tell a story. With folk art, artists are usually more interested in following cultural traditions than self-expression. Pieces of folk art often have more practical uses compared to works of fine art, such as quilts and furniture. Other examples of folk art include pottery, masks, textiles and carvings. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of fine and folk art.
1stDibs ExpertOctober 7, 2024
Related Questions
- What is the difference between art and fine art?1 Answer
- What is the difference between fine and functional art?1 Answer
- What is the difference between fine art and decorative art?1 Answer
- What is the difference between fine jewelry and jewelry?1 Answer
- What is the difference between bone china and fine china?1 Answer
Shop for Folk Art on 1stDibs
Antique Khamseh Wool Rug with Birds and Geometric Motifs Tribal Natural Carpet
Located in Tokyo, JP
This striking antique Khamseh rug, handwoven in southern Iran during the late 19th to early 20th century, captures the spirit and vitality of Qashqai tribal artistry. Measuring 133 c...
Category
Early 20th Century Turkish Oushak Rugs
Materials
Wool, Natural Fiber, Organic Material
Vintage Malatya Chuval Kilim Cuval Rug Nomadic Anatolian Natural Turkish Carpet
Located in Tokyo, JP
This is a beautifully detailed old Malatya Region, Anatolian Chuval kilim, featuring a bold, three-dimensional texture and precise geometric patterns. Originally used by nomadic trib...
Category
Mid-20th Century Turkish Kilim Rugs
Materials
Wool, Natural Fiber, Organic Material
$520 Sale Price
20% Off
Free Shipping
Wooden Backgammon Board Game 20th Century
Located in San Juan Capistrano, CA
Vintage Backgammon board game set in a beautiful two toned wooden case by HIT.
INCLUDES: • 15 Butterscotch Chips/Stones • 15 Chocolate Brown Chips/Stones • 1 Pair of White dice • 1...
Category
20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Game Boards
Materials
Stone
Tutsi Archer Bracelet (arm Guard) Rwanda, Early 20th Century
By Tutsi People
Located in Bilzen, BE
Tutsi Archer’s Bracelet (Arm Guard)
Origin: Rwanda or Burundi, Great Lakes Region
Ethnic Group: Tutsi
Material: Carved hardwood with copper inlays
Dimensions: 17.5 x 21 cm diameter, ...
Category
Early 20th Century Rwandan Tribal Tribal Art
Materials
Copper
Antique Folk Art Pig Weathervane on Custom Mount
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This delightful pig weathervane embodies the rustic charm and whimsical spirit of American folk art. Crafted from copper, the figure of a plump pig is ...
Category
Vintage 1930s American Folk Art Weathervanes
Materials
Metal, Copper
Early Cayuse Pendleton Blanket-Dated 1927
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Rare Pendleton / Cayuse wool Indian design camp blanket in fine condition.This blanket has such amazing colors and pattern.A great addition to any Indian collection.
Category
20th Century American Adirondack Quilts
Materials
Wool, Cotton
$716 Sale Price
20% Off