1940s Folk Art

Len “Spider” Austin The drunken clown shoes A genuine pair of leather clown's shoes, these were made by Anello & Davide; shoemakers to the ballet, dance and theatrical world from th...

48 STAR, U.S. NAVY SMALL BOAT ENSIGN, MADE AT MARE ISLAND, CALIFORNIA DURING WWII, SIGNED AND DATED 1944, IN THE SMALLEST SCALE EMPLOYED AT THE TIME 48 star American national flag, ...

20Thc all wool diamond in a square from Lancaster county,Pennsylvania. The crib quilt is in mint condition and is all wool & very finely quilted. The backing is a brown & and the bin...

Collection of Lineol toy figures depicting soldiers of the Royal Danish Guard wearing bearskin hats. The collection also includes guard towers and dates from around the 1930s–1940s. ...

Interesting French tole decoration bunch of flowers in a basket, maybe a dummy board.

Mexico, circa 1940 · Solid carved and polychrome wood · 50 × 44 cm It depends on where you look from. And that is exactly the point. This large-format sculpture — 50 cm tall, 44 cm...

Six folk art carved and painted canes. They measure from 35-39" in length.

Expressive traditional Mexican mask, hand-carved in wood and polychromed, circa 1940. Defined by its strong features and sculptural presence, it displays a prominent nose, brows acce...

48 STARS ON ANTIQUE AMERICAN FLAG WITH HAND-WRITTEN INSCRIPTIONS AND AN EMBROIDERED DATE OF APRIL 12TH, 1945, MOURNING THE DEATH OF PRESIDENT FRANKLIN DELANO ROOSEVELT: American national parade flag with 48 stars, printed on cotton, embellished with hand-written inscriptions and an embroidered date to commemorate the death of FDR on April 12th, 1945. “On this day in 1945, President Franklin D. Roosevelt died of a massive cerebral hemorrhage at his Warm Springs, Georgia, retreat at the age of 63. Roosevelt’s death in the final months of World War II was met with shock and grief throughout the Western world. Many Americans had no inkling of his decline in health. [He] had been president for more than 12 years, longer than any other person. He led the country through some of its greatest domestic and foreign crises to the impending defeat of Nazi Germany and within sight of Japan’s surrender...

Remarkable Mexican ceremonial mask handcrafted in repoussé copper sheet and hand-painted polychrome, circa 1940. The composition depicts a bearded male figure integrated into a fanta...

Impressive large-scale Mexican mask, entirely hand-carved in wood and painted in vivid traditional colors. The piece depicts a theatrical devil face with long natural horns, striking...

1870 Hand crafted Folk Art Bull sculpture hand crafted from natural materials Has a pocket measuring 8x7.5" 12" deep

Antique American carnival amusement park, carousel motorcycle ride, from the late 1940s. A fabulous late 1940s motorcycle carousel ride, the motorcycle body is made of wood and is ha...

Substantial cowhide bag with brass hardware and closure. Used a travel bag for physicians to play tools and prescriptions in. Perfect as a purse or for tra...

Chiapa de Corzo, Chiapas, México · Circa 1940 · Papier-mâché, natural pigments. The Parachicos are one of the oldest and most celebrated expressions of Chiapas cultural identity. Th...

Puebla, Mexico, circa 1970. This mask arrived at a dance before it arrived on a wall. The character it represents is unmistakable in the dance tradition of Puebla: a rose-toned comp...

Antique Chinese large cork diorama depicting temple and garden scene.

This Navajo Indian weaving has a saw tooth border and most unusual colors.The weaving is in pristine condition.

Group of five Folk Art fish decoys composed of painted tinned iron sheet metal or aluminum fins and tails and carved wooden weighted lead bodies, some with ...

Ventaglio in teca firmato, possibile Spagnolo. Buone condizioni. Grazie

Symbolically, miniature ladders like the Dogon ladder can hold various meanings depending on the context in which they are used and their cultural or historical background. For example, a miniature ladder can be a metaphor for ambition and personal growth, representing the desire to reach new heights or overcome obstacles. In spiritual contexts, a ladder can symbolize a path to wisdom or enlightenment, reflecting a personal quest to achieve higher consciousness or insight. The interpretation of its design is multifaceted and may reflect a combination of traditional, cultural, and personal values. It serves as a beautiful symbol for those seeking inner guidance, a personal altar...

This rare and unique Ife-style bronze head, dating from the mid-20th century, draws inspiration from the great sculptural traditions of West Africa’s royal arts. Echoing the prestigious effigies of the kingdoms of Ife and Benin, these works embody the symbolic language associated with sovereign authority, lineage, and ancestral commemoration. Crafted using the refined lost-wax casting technique, it demonstrates remarkable precision and mastery—harmonious proportions, finely worked surfaces, and a dignified presence. The style evokes the renowned Ife heads...

We offer this rare and very antique Mexican Diablo mask in wood, circa 1940. Great patina.

Likely handmade mid-20th-century figural costume inspired by the mirrored imagery of a traditional playing card. The costume comprises two painted boards, each decorated with a high-...

Original Vintage Disneyland Characters costume headpiece, German ?Hand made using Paper Mache,, Depicting Mickey Mouse . Pinocchio.. and Peter Pan.. Possibly made in Germany? These m...

Fantastic advertising sign from possibly a travel agency or transit system c1940. Excellent vintage condition with just the right amount of wear. Stainless border and mounting hardwa...

Large Scale Vintage New York City Bus or Subway Roll, Brooklyn-Queens , 8th ave... Over 11 feet !! Great old sign, double sided.

Classic vintage NEON "MOTEL" sign salvaged from a motel in Niagara Falls Canada,, Retains original finish & patina,, New transformer, metal replaced to bottom of can,, (see photo)

Rare Carta Blanca beer porcelain metal sign. Mexico, ca. 1940’s.

Distinctive mid-20th century Mexican ceremonial mask, hand-carved in wood with a powerful sculptural presence and a deeply expressive aesthetic. The piece depicts a fantastic zoomorp...

Early 20th century wood stairs. Manufactured in France, circa 1940. In original condition with minor wear consistent of age and use, preserving a beautiful patina. Materials...

Radiating the serenity of Scandinavian design, this vintage flat-woven rug by Ingegerd Silow exemplifies the iconic simplicity and elegance of Swedish textile artistry. Woven in the ...

For your consideration, antique leather western saddle stirrup. Leather covered metal saddle stirrup, circa 1940s.  

Original Bavarian Tyrolian Folk Art painting, signed and dated This charming folk painting is executed in oil on artist board. A beautiful and rus...

Collection of Decorative Obelisks and Sphere - Five Pieces This striking grouping features five distinctive decorative objects that blend exotic materials with classical forms, perfect for adding sophisticated global style to any interior. Set Includes: Pair of Faux Tortoiseshell Obelisks Tall, slender obelisks crafted from genuine or faux tortoiseshell featuring rich amber and dark brown mottled patterns. Each piece is mounted on a substantial black painted wooden base with classical architectural detailing. The translucent quality of the material creates depth and visual interest. Pair of Amber/Honey-Tone Swirl Obelisks Medium-height obelisks displaying dramatic swirled patterns in warm honey, amber, and caramel tones. Possibly crafted from resin, acrylic, or natural horn, these pieces showcase flowing, marbled patterns reminiscent of wood grain. Mounted on simple natural wood square bases that complement the organic coloring. Mosaic Patchwork Sphere on Stand (Center) Eye-catching decorative sphere featuring an intricate patchwork design of alternating dark and light tiles or pieces, creating a checkerboard-like pattern with an organic, global aesthetic. The sphere rests on a turned wooden pedestal base in dark finish with traditional detailing. Style: Global Eclectic, Traditional, Regency, Exotic Materials: Tortoiseshell (genuine or faux), natural or composite materials with swirl patterns, mosaic tilework, wood : Excellent as mantel decoration, bookshelf styling, console table arrangement, or symmetrical design statement Condition: Good, with natural variations in materials adding to authentic character This curated collection brings warmth, texture, and timeless elegance to traditional, transitional, or eclectic interiors.Faux Tortoise shell Obelisks...

Folk Art Church Model We are proud to offer a wonderful example of a mid-20th Century folk-art church model. Built from scratch using various material...

Polished brass ships lantern with large reserve oil tank by Perko. With red glass Fresnel lens that has protective brass bars, vented top, burner, etc. Weight...

Fantastic Yei Indian weaving in mint condition made into a shoulder bag backed with top quality black leather.Fine condition.

This hand carved wood sculpture of a mermaid is in fine condition.It is hand carved and unsigned.So fantastic the surface and carving.

This authentic 20th-century German lifebuoy is a rare maritime artifact with exceptional decorative appeal. The piece shows a rich, weathered patina that speaks to its long history a...

c. 1940s; mfd. by Robertson-Dualife, Inc. for The Coca-Cola Company - Atlanta, GA Large horizontal Coca-Cola advertising sign with iconic cream script lettering against a vivid red ...

1940s aluminum Stan Laurel doll with articulating joints made by Swiss watch company Bucherer. From comedy duo "Laurel and Hardy" of early Americ...

This handmade folk art battleship from the early 1940s is a remarkable example of wartime craftsmanship, reflecting both the patriotic spirit and resourcefulness of the era. Crafted ...

Mid-20th century black dance mask, Guerrero, Mexico A nice old mask from Guererro, Mexico, used in the Tlacololero Dance of the Tlactapa and probably fr...

Circa 1940. We offer this antique folk mask hand-carved in wood, with a powerful ritual presence and expressive character. The piece depicts a fantastical zoomorphic face with long c...

A circa 1940s English 10-arm brass and wood drum chandelier with original painted finish and patina. Measurements: Current drop (adjustable) ...

An exceptionally rare and fine early piece by famed American ceramist Beatrice Wood featuring a dynamic and unique design. The colors illuminate like stained glass under the glaze wh...

This handmade folk art battleship from the early 1940s is a remarkable example of wartime craftsmanship, reflecting both the patriotic spirit and resourcefulness of the era. Crafted ...

Ohio Amish blue & pink broken star quilt in pristine condition. Very fine quilting and piece work. Notice the fine hand stitched saw tooth binding.

This striking French Art Deco rug, dating to circa 1945, exemplifies the confident geometries and abstract elegance that defined the post-war European design ethos. Its layout reflec...

WW2 era Cresent No 17 mahogany propeller with brass tipping. This piece came down through a family out of Texas, and it was reputed to be on a war plane that one of their ancestor...

Large Tribal Mask/Sculpture (Adoné), crafted as originally naturalistic Antelope, Kurumba people, Burkina Faso , early 20th cent. Note :Adoné Headdress was used as portable altars ...

Tall one of a kind cowboy and horse spinning whirligig American Folk Art piece. Most likely from a larger folk art environment. Sheet steel constructi...

Mexican Indian weaving horse pillows with a weaving on the reverse of pillows.The over size horse pillows are from a larger weaving.The inserts are down & feather fill. Sold as a pair.

Have a seat! One of a kind human form chair. Wonderfully carved muscles, toes, clenched fists for support. Looks like the chair is ready to go crawling ac...

Rare mid century Lobi folk tribal art female figure wooden sculpture produced in Burkina Faso, Africa by anonymous designer in the 1940s. In good original condition. Dimensions: H:...

Originally designed by architect, designer and artistic director Guido Andlovitz in 1936 for Società Ceramica Italiana Laveno, this pair of vases are indeed the rarest of finds. The vases were manufactured in 1942, as attested to by the marking "N - 42" on the base of each vase. The gold rims and aquatic scenes that surround each vase, are unique to each piece and were painted by hand in 1943. They are both signed by the artist "Miruccia". One of the vases has the words “Anni di Guerra” (Year of War) written on the base in reference to the Second World War . Founded in Laveno in 1856 by Severino Revelli and some former employees of the "Richard" manufacturer in Milan. The "SCI" (Italian Ceramic Society) began its activity as a manufacturer of wall tiles and fine tableware. In 1883 it became a limited company and obtained its first successes at numerous national exhibitions. In 1895, Cavalier Luciano Scotti took over the company and, thanks to his intuition and his entrepreneurial skills, the factory grew substantially in a few years. In those years, some Liberty-style pieces designed by Giorgio Spertini, the author of noteworthy elegant "whiplash" creations, were created in the Laveno factory. In 1906 "SCI" presented numerous works at the International Exhibition of Decorative Arts in Milan. Other collaborators from the beginning of the century were Silvio and Piero De Ambrosis, Felice Palucco, Giancarlo Jacopini and the brothers Marco and Luigi Raggiori. However, it was in 1923 that, under the direction of Guido Andlovitz, the company reached the peak of its fame and in 1925 was a resounding success at the 2nd Monza Biennale. Andlovitz, who collaborated with the manufacturer for almost forty years, applied to the production process the principle of seriality, a concept also put into effect by Giò Ponti at "Richard-Ginori", adopting various types of decoration which, although moulded and decal stamped, still retained an undeniable elegance. In 1924 the "Società Ceramica Revelli" became a consortium with the "SCI", the partnership would continue until 1932 and saw Franco Revelli's company marketing pottery and table porcelain on behalf of "SCI". From 1925 porcelain and crockery began to appear in the factory's catalogs. In 1927 the company was present at the 3rd Biennial of Decorative Arts in Monza. Between the end of the 1920's and the beginning of the 1930's, the decorators Giuseppe Bellorini and Daniela Ferretto began to collaborate with the "SCI". As of 1932 the company managed two factories: that of Laveno, which, with over 1300 employees, produced strong pottery, tableware and artistic ceramics and the smaller factory of Verbano, which employed about 400 people and produced, in addition to ceramics for the electrotechnical industry, excellent table porcelain. The products were marketed in the company owned stores in Rome, Genoa and Naples. This was an initiative realised by Andlovitz himself. In the mid-thirties, the decorators Ada Corsi and Ida Fonini among others, collaborated with the "SCI". From 1936 to 1940 the artistic direction of the company was entrusted to the sculptor and modeler Angelo Biancini. In 1939 about 1300 people worked in the Laveno plant and in 1951 about 2300. In the years between the two wars among the collaborators of the factory were Sirio Tofanari...

This elegant European Art Deco rug from the mid-1940s exemplifies the refined and forward-looking design ethos of post-war Europe. Hand-knotted in wool, the rug features a bold yet p...

Bakelite or early plastic photo frame by Giulio Natta. Front glass Production L.A.C.S.A. Bologna Good condition. Thanks

1940s Native American wooden painted trading post sign. Colors are vibrant. This is what paint collectors appreciate. The natural fade and slight crackling of the paint showing true ...