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
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Shop for Folk Art on 1stDibs
Large Antique Painted Folk Art Pike Trade Sign, Fish Monger’s Metal Shop Sign
Located in Lisse, NL
Kindly note that we arrange the shipping ourselves to ensure a smooth, secure, and reliable delivery. This allows us to provide the best possible service and care for your purchase.
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Category
Early 20th Century French Folk Art Animal Sculptures
Materials
Zinc
$2,453 / set
Free Shipping
Ararat Rugs Oversized Mamlouk Rug A Majestic Revival of Islamic Artistry Carpet
By Ararat Rugs
Located in Tokyo, JP
Origin and Inspiration:
The Mamlouk Rug is a contemporary masterpiece that draws its inspiration from the rich textile traditions of the Mamlouk Sultanate, which reigned over Egypt a...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Turkish Revival Turkish Rugs
Materials
Wool, Natural Fiber, Organic Material
Superb Heavy Tribal Silver cuff bracelet Somalian African Tribal
Located in London, GB
A superb heavy tribal bracelet from the Horn of Africa, attributed to the Ethiopian, Somali, or Nubian regions. Crafted from high-grade silver, this substantial piece is richly decor...
Category
Antique 19th Century Somali Tribal Art
Materials
Leather
Hand Carved Signed Large Vintage Antique Wood Swan Decoy Sculpture, 1929
Located in Studio City, CA
A fantastic, large hand-carved swan decoy with a beautiful, natural glowing patina that comes with age. This piece has a wonderful classic shape and finely carved texture.
The work ...
Category
Vintage 1920s American Folk Art Decoys
Materials
Wood
Japanese Two Wooden Kabuki Dolls Renjishi 1990s
Located in Paris, FR
They are two Kabuki (Japanese theater) dolls made with woods and silk.
The woods are for body parts and silks are for kimono parts that they are wearing.
These dolls are from Renjishi Story.
They were made in Japan around 1990s in Showa era.
Dimensions:
8.5 × 6.5 x H9.5 cm (White kabuki doll...
Category
1990s Japanese Showa Antiquities
Materials
Silk, Wood
Ararat Rugs the Barbieri Tree Design Carpet, Persian Revival Rug, Natural Dyed
By Ararat Rugs
Located in Tokyo, JP
The source of carpet comes from the book Orient Star - A Carpet Collection, E. Heinrich Kirchheim, Hali Publications Ltd, 1993 nr.64 and Islamic Carpets, Joseph V. McMullan, Near Eas...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Turkish Revival Persian Rugs
Materials
Wool, Natural Fiber, Organic Material