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Folk Art

FOLK ART STYLE

Folk art is a genre of art that shares the creator’s traditions, offering not just an artistic display but an opportunity to learn about a culture. Antique, new and vintage folk art typically reflects a heritage or location. It can include utilitarian objects and handmade art as diverse as weather vanes, duck decoys, portraiture and paintings, carnival art and quilts.

Quilts are a quintessential part of American folk art but their roots are international, with quilting dating back to Ancient Egypt. The practice spread to Europe and was especially prominent in the Middle Ages, with one of the oldest surviving examples being the Tristan quilt made in Sicily in the 14th century. They were made as bedcovers and clothing, including as a layer for knights to wear beneath their armor. Native American folk art includes functional objects reflecting their heritage, such as baskets, textiles and wooden pieces.

Elsewhere, the vast range of work associated with Mexican folk art includes masks made by Mexican craftspeople for traditional celebrations and ceremonial dances. Mexican masks are part of the country’s folk-art traditions that go back thousands of years and play a role in festivals and theater.

Works in the folk art tradition are valuable because of the skills involved, like weaving, hand-carving wood and even stonework. Many folk artists are self-taught, while some train as apprentices within their community. By using available materials and taking a personal approach to their creations, artists ensure each piece is unique and conveys a story.

During the Great Depression, artistic materials in America were hard to come by, so artisans used discarded wood from cigar boxes and shipping crates to make highly stylized, notched pieces — most often picture frames and boxes — that are today sought after by collectors. This folk art style is called tramp art and was popular from roughly 1870 until the 1940s.

Folk art brings vibrant culture and traditions into your home. Browse an extensive collection of antique, new and vintage folk art on 1stDibs.

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Item Ships From: USA
Style: Folk Art
Nantucket Large Oval Basket by Mitchy Ray, circa 1920s
Located in Nantucket, MA
Late 19th century nantucket basket, by Mitchy Ray (1877 - 1956), circa 1920s, a large open oval basket with heavy rattan staves, cane weave, sol...
Category

1920s American Vintage Folk Art

Materials

Cane

Early 20Thc Wool Amish Pennsylvania Bars Quilt
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This fine all wool bars quilt is from Lancaster County, Pennsylvania and has very fine tight quilting & in very good condition. The simple cool colors are also amazing as it goes wit...
Category

1920s American Vintage Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Salampasu Mask
Located in Chicago, IL
This ceremonial African mask is linked to the Salampasu people of the Bantu ethnic group located primarily in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Salampasu masks...
Category

Mid-20th Century Congolese Folk Art

Materials

Wood, Bamboo

Brazilian Wai Wai Tribal Cassava Graters Circa 1945
Located in Dallas, TX
Brazilian Wei Wei Casava Graters Two graters constructed of wood and sharpened rock used by the Wai Wai Indigenous tribe of Northern Brazil to process raw Cas...
Category

1940s Brazilian Vintage Folk Art

Materials

Stone

Early 20th Century Carved and Painted Wood Whirligig
Located in Santa Monica, CA
Carved and painted wooden soldier whirligig. Early 20th century American. Soldier has a leather hat with wooden brim. Presented on simple custom museum...
Category

Early 20th Century American Folk Art

Materials

Wood

Sea Shell Encrusted Folk Art Photo Frame - 4" x 6"
Located in Oklahoma City, OK
A rectangular sea shell-encrusted photo frame with protective glass and a black easel at the back. Perfect for a side table or nightstand. Dimensions: The overall size of the frame...
Category

20th Century American Folk Art

Materials

Shell, Glass

Mid-19th Century Child’s Grain Painted Miniature Chest of Drawers
Located in Nantucket, MA
Mid-19th century Benchmade child’s grain painted Miniature chest of drawers. A country piece in the American Empire style, with a step-back drawer and backsplash, above the case with...
Category

Mid-19th Century North American Antique Folk Art

Materials

Wood

Rare Folk Art Iron Shooting Gallery Carnival Ram Sculpture
Located in Hopewell, NJ
Fabulous folk art freestanding animal sculpture made from found carnival art shooting gallery iron ram. Rich with authentic character, the brown patinated surface is pocked with bul...
Category

Early 1900s American Antique Folk Art

Materials

Iron

Antique Ethnic Artifact Sepik River Cassowary Bone from Papua New Guinea
Located in North Hollywood, CA
Antique Ethnic Artifact Sepik River Cassowary Bone from Papua New Guinea For many groups in Papua New Guinea, bone was an important medium for making tools of all types. This artifact is made from leg bone of a cassowary, a large, flightless, and extremely dangerous, bird. Cassowaries also play an important role in the mythology of groups in the Sepik River area. Though no longer used these bone artifacts are still used ceremonially. They often play important roles in male initiation and other rituals. They are also worn as personal adornment by tucking them into a band of braided fibers worn around the upper arm. Antique Ethnic Bone Cassowary Artifact with minimal carving and incised design confined to the joint end. A small hole has been drilled through from both sides of the top and presumably for the threading of a cord. The bone has been partially divided near the top and to form two prongs that project down the back of the dagger possibly allowing the user to wear is tuck into a waist band or belt. Origin Papua New Guinea Maprik Dist Area From the Art Collection of Marian and John Scott, acquired in 1962. Similar items are in display in the Timothy S. Y. Lam Museum of Anthropology. Purchased from the amazing private collection of Mark Lissauer who spent his life collecting niche ethnographic pieces. About Mark Lissauer: Mark Lissauer spent forty years travelling abroad for months at a time collecting ethnographic artefacts primarily from New Guinea and the islands of the West Pacific, and from Asia and Himalayan countries. Fluent in five languages and having in the course of business travelled to more than forty countries, Mark is well-known to museums and art-collectors around the world for his long career and his interesting and diverse collection of rare ethnographic material. Mark knows the origin and symbolism of each piece. Through extensive research and more than ninety trips around the globe, Mark familiarised himself with the traditions of the various cultures he visited in order to understand the meaning of each object to its region and tribe. His home has a specialist library and several rooms are filled with tribal carvings, textiles and ethnographica. He acquired his first tribal piece in 1948 during a business trip to Milne Bay, New Guinea, and has since documented the acquisition of some 35,000 items. Several thousands of these have been sold to important private collections and museums worldwide, including the Rockefeller Museum, the British Museum and the Musée National des Arts d’Afrique et d’Océanie, now incorporated into the Louvre Museum. Estimator certificate of authenticity by Wayne Heathcote Tribal Art Dealer and Expert. Heathcote has a flash gallery in Brussels, where much of the tribal art business is centred, and is an expert at Sotheby's tribal art sale...
Category

Early 20th Century Folk Art

Materials

Bone

Rare Prototype / Maquette Cardboard Chaise Lounge by Joel Stearns
By Joel Stearns
Located in Buffalo, NY
One of only eight made !! Cardboard Chaise Lounge designed and created by Joel Stearns, similar to one in the Lois Lambert Gallery..Amazing modernist sculpture.. ,Joel Stearns, wh...
Category

1990s American Folk Art

Materials

Paper

Enchanting Folk Art Painting of Rooster on Tin
Located in Hopewell, NJ
Enchanting self taught art from Kentucky of a country rooster with the words Fresh Eggs scrawled boldly, all on distressed tin mounted on board. Was probably used as a roadside sign.
Category

1950s American Vintage Folk Art

Materials

Tin

Vintage Nahua Pottery Chililico Hidalgo Mexican Folk Art Animal Candleholders
Located in Forney, TX
A most charming pair of two rare and whimsical indigenous Nahua peoples pottery animal folk art candleholders. Handmade in the village of Chililico, Hidalgo, Central Mexico, primiti...
Category

Mid-20th Century Mexican Folk Art

Materials

Pottery

Elena Basilevsky Painted Stone Sculpture
Located in New York, NY
Elena Basilevsky (XX) painted stone sculpture of a musician, signed to side and mounted to ebonized base. Overall: 11" H x 7.75" W x 4.25" D.
Category

20th Century Folk Art

Materials

Stone

Early 20Thc Red & Blue School House Quilt
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This folky school house quilt in red ,white & blue is in fine condition.We believe its from a mid west collection.
Category

1910s American Vintage Folk Art

Materials

Cotton

Collection of Handmade Mexican Folk Art Masks
Located in Atlanta, GA
Collection of Handmade Mexican Folk Art Tin Masks, Mexican, circa 1950s. Each mask is unique and extremely detailed. The largest mask measures 21"...
Category

1950s Mexican Vintage Folk Art

Materials

Copper, Tin

19Thc Applique of Wreath of Roses From Pennsylvania
Located in Los Angeles, CA
19Thc Wreath of roses applique quilt from Pennsylvania in pristine condition.This quilt is finely appliqued & nice quilting.
Category

Late 19th Century American Antique Folk Art

Materials

Cotton

Jim Rose Barn House Structure, Welded Steel Sculpture Made with Salvaged Steel
Located in Chicago, IL
This is a welded steel sculpture made by furniture creator Jim Rose. It is sustainable design created from salvaged and recycled steel panels left over from his larger projects. These sculptures reference traditional American Folk Art barn house models or bird houses. This sculpture works alone on a shelf or table or can be grouped with other house sculptures by the artist. Each house sculpture is unique in design and color. Jim Rose Structure No. 245 repurposed painted steel 6.50h x 8w x 3d in 16.51h x 20.32w x 7.62d cm JR0333 Jim Rose b. 1966, d. 2023 Bio Born in Indiana, Jim Rose lived in Europe until he returned to the United States to attend college. After one year at Bard College, Jim transferred to the School of the Art Institute in Chicago (SAIC) where he graduated in 1988 with a BFA. His skillful interpretation of the Shaker design is a result of intense research and field study of Shaker furniture, architecture, culture and history. After over two decades of dedicated work, he has mastered the minimalism of the Shaker technique and created his own unique visual vernacular. The quilts of Gee's Bend have become a monumental influence taking this artist's work to new levels of unique interpretation and artistry. His selection of aged steel results in a patina directly related to that of aged wood while his colored strips beautifully mimic worn cloth. Each piece of furniture is masterfully made and intended for daily use. Jim Rose’s steel furniture is featured every year at SOFA Chicago for the past 25 years. Jim Rose b. 1966, Wisconsin Education 1989 B.F.A., Sculpture, The School of the Art Institute of Chicago, IL 1988 Student at Large, Welding Technology, Triton College, Chicago, IL 1985 Undergraduate Photography Bard College, Annandale-on-Hudson, New York Awards 2008 Wisconsin Arts Board Fellowship Award, Madison, WI 2005 Elizabeth R. Raphael Founder’s Prize, Society for Contemporary Craft, Pittsburgh, PA 2003 Grant Recipient for Shaker Interpretations in Cast Iron, PA Arts Assoc / WI Arts Board 2003 Arts/Industry Residency Program for Visual Artists, John Michael Kohler Arts Center, Sheboygan, Wisconsin Solo Exhibitions 2017 New Work, Tory Folliard Gallery, Milwaukee, WI 2012 Simply Steel, Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum, Wausau, WI 2007 Variation, Ann Nathan Gallery, Chicago, IL 2003 New Work, Ann Nathan Gallery, Chicago, IL 2001 Shaker in Steel / New Work, Ann Nathan Gallery, Chicago, IL 2000 Shaker in Steel / New Work, Ann Nathan Gallery, Chicago, IL 1999 Hands and Heart to Steel III, Ann Nathan Gallery, Chicago, IL National Exhibitions 2017-2018 SOFA Chicago – Gallery Victor Armendariz 2016 - 1995 SOFA Chicago, New York, Palm Beach - Ann Nathan Gallery 2011 - 2002 Art Chicago - Ann Nathan Gallery Group Exhibitions 2017 Coming Attractions: Inaugural Exhibition, Gallery Victor Armendariz, Chicago, IL 2017 Living with Art: The Newman Collection, 108 Contemporary, Tulsa, Oklahoma 2016 Form Follows Function: The Intersection of Art and Craft, The Hardy Gallery, Ephraim, Wi 2015 NEO, Chipstone Foundation, Milwaukee Art Museum, Milwaukee, WI 2015 ICFF, Furniture Society, Javits Convention Center, New York City, NY 2013 Vahki Revisited, The Enduring Spirit of a Craft Collection” Mesa Contemporary Arts, Mesa, AZ 2013 Fearless Furniture, Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites, Indianapolis, IN 2013 Inaugural Exhibition, Museum Wisconsin of Art, West Bend, WI 2012 Sitting Pretty: Furniture from RAM’s Collection, Racine Art Museum, WI 2011 Hiding Places: Memory in the Arts, John Michael Kohler Arts Center, WI 2010 Living with Art, Strohl Art Center, Chautauqua Institution, NY 2009 Summer in Wisconsin, Tory Folliard Gallery, Milwaukee, WI 2009 High Honors, James Watrous Gallery, Madison, WI 2008 Second Lives: Remixing the Ordinary, Museum of Art and Design, NY 2007 Transformation 5: Contemporary Works in Found Materials, Art Association, Jackson, WY 2007 Transformation 5: Contemporary Works in Found Materials, Houston Center for Contemporary Craft, Houston, TX (traveling exhibition) 2006 Show us Your Drawers, Herron School of Art, Indianapolis, IN 2006 Marriage of the Minds...
Category

2010s American Folk Art

Materials

Steel

Antique Mid-Atlantic States Folky Slide Lid Candle Box with an Original Red Wash
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A fine antique American candle box. In pine or fir with its original red paint. A rectangular candle or table box having a slide lid with carved sides & a thumb slot. Round nail...
Category

19th Century American Antique Folk Art

Materials

Wood

Abraham Lincoln Head Folk Sculpture
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Early 20Thc Hand carved head of Lincoln.This folky head has a black painted shirt.
Category

Early 20th Century American Folk Art

Materials

Wood

19th Century Mexican Religious Retablo
Located in Ross, CA
Antique Mexican retablo made in 1890 which includes a woman praying to the Virgin Mary and Jesus Christ. Framed in wooden frame ornately carve...
Category

1890s Mexican Antique Folk Art

Materials

Tin

19Thc Decorated Stone Ware From Evan Jones Cake Crock
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This fine 19thc decorated stone ware cake crock is signed by Evan R. Jones and made in Pittston,Pennsylvania.It has two hand applied handles on each side.This crock is in mint condit...
Category

1870s American Antique Folk Art

Materials

Pottery

Found and Salvaged Industrial Steel Object Sculpture Arrangement
Located in Chicago, IL
Made from found industrial objects, this face takes on different looks at every angle. A wedge, sprockets, gears are adhered to a found painted steel plate to complete this "Flatlay Face" Jim Rose Flatlay Face No. 06, 2021 found industrial objects 4.25h x 9.50w x 9.50d in 10.79h x 24.13w x 24.13d cm JR0300 Jim Rose b. 1966, d. 2023 Bio Born in Indiana, Jim Rose lived in Europe until he returned to the United States to attend college. After one year at Bard College, Jim transferred to the School of the Art Institute in Chicago (SAIC) where he graduated in 1988 with a BFA. His skillful interpretation of the Shaker design is a result of intense research and field study of Shaker furniture, architecture, culture and history. After over two decades of dedicated work, he has mastered the minimalism of the Shaker technique and created his own unique visual vernacular. The quilts of Gee's Bend have become a monumental influence taking this artist's work to new levels of unique interpretation and artistry. His selection of aged steel results in a patina directly related to that of aged wood while his colored strips beautifully mimic worn cloth. Each piece of furniture is masterfully made and intended for daily use. Jim Rose’s steel furniture is featured every year at SOFA Chicago for the past 25 years. Jim Rose b. 1966, Wisconsin Education 1989 B.F.A., Sculpture, The School of the Art Institute of Chicago, IL 1988 Student at Large, Welding Technology, Triton College, Chicago, IL 1985 Undergraduate Photography Bard College, Annandale-on-Hudson, New York Awards 2008 Wisconsin Arts Board Fellowship Award, Madison, WI. 2005 Elizabeth R. Raphael Founder’s Prize, Society for Contemporary Craft, Pittsburgh, PA 2003 Grant Recipient for Shaker Interpretations in Cast Iron, PA Arts Assoc / WI Arts Board 2003 Arts/Industry Residency Program for Visual Artists, John Michael Kohler Arts Center, Sheboygan, Wisconsin Solo Exhibitions 2017 New Work, Tory Folliard Gallery, Milwaukee, WI 2012 Simply Steel, Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum, Wausau, WI 2007 Variation, Ann Nathan Gallery, Chicago, IL 2003 New Work, Ann Nathan Gallery, Chicago, IL 2001 Shaker in Steel / New Work, Ann Nathan Gallery, Chicago, IL 2000 Shaker in Steel / New Work, Ann Nathan Gallery, Chicago, IL 1999 Hands and Heart to Steel III, Ann Nathan Gallery, Chicago, IL National Exhibitions 2017-2018 SOFA Chicago – Gallery Victor Armendariz 2016 - 1995 SOFA Chicago, New York, Palm Beach - Ann Nathan Gallery 2011 - 2002 Art Chicago - Ann Nathan Gallery Group Exhibitions 2017 Coming Attractions: Inaugural Exhibition, Gallery Victor Armendariz, Chicago, IL 2017 Living with Art: The Newman Collection, 108 Contemporary, Tulsa, Oklahoma 2016 Form Follows Function: The Intersection of Art and Craft, The Hardy Gallery, Ephraim, Wi 2015 NEO, Chipstone Foundation, Milwaukee Art Museum, Milwaukee, WI 2015 ICFF, Furniture Society, Javits Convention Center, New York City, NY 2013 Vahki Revisited, The Enduring Spirit of a Craft Collection” Mesa Contemporary Arts, Mesa, AZ 2013 Fearless Furniture, Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites, Indianapolis, IN 2013 Inaugural Exhibition, Museum Wisconsin of Art, West Bend, WI 2012 Sitting Pretty: Furniture from RAM’s Collection, Racine Art Museum, WI 2011 Hiding Places: Memory in the Arts, John Michael Kohler Arts Center, WI 2010 Living with Art, Strohl Art Center, Chautauqua Institution, NY 2009 Summer in Wisconsin, Tory Folliard Gallery, Milwaukee, WI 2009 High Honors, James Watrous Gallery, Madison, WI 2008 Second Lives: Remixing the Ordinary, Museum of Art and Design, NY 2007 Transformation 5: Contemporary Works in Found Materials, Art Association, Jackson, WY 2007 Transformation 5: Contemporary Works in Found Materials, Houston Center for Contemporary Craft, Houston, TX (traveling exhibition) 2006 Show us Your Drawers, Herron School of Art, Indianapolis, IN 2006 Marriage of the Minds...
Category

2010s American Folk Art

Materials

Steel

18th Century French or Italian Santo Nativity Figure
Located in Nantucket, MA
18th century French or Italian Santo Nativity Figure, a hand carved and painted fruitwood figure for a Christmas Crèche or Krippe. Excellent and delicate details to the head and hands. The half figure stands on a dowel set into platform base, dressed in original fine linen robe...
Category

18th Century Italian Antique Folk Art

Materials

Linen, Fruitwood

Tabwa Staff with Female Figure
Located in Chicago, IL
This hand carved 20th century wooden staff, was crafted in the style of the Tabwa people located along the southwestern shores of Lake Tanganyika. The handle is finely decorated with...
Category

20th Century South African Folk Art

Materials

Wood

Spanish Colonial Mexico Carved Painted Archangel Santo Religious Sculpture
Located in Forney, TX
A large vintage Spanish Colonial style Mexican religious folk art carved wood santo figure - bulto carving. Mid-20th century, Mexico, primitive hand-crafted construction, one-of-a-kind, likely depicting San Miguel Arcángel (Saint Michael the Archangel), hand carved gessoed polychromed solid wood figural sculpture, standing on integral plinth base, affixed with metal wings, right hand raised holding a sword. Provenance / Acquisition: From the estate of Margaret "Candy" Becker (Austin, Texas 1942-2022). She was an artist in all areas of her life who created art in many different media, including needlework, quilting, watercolor, acrylics, mosaic, and clay. Candy was a consummate traveler who spent time in Mexico, Guatemala, Japan, Iran, Turkey, Uzbekistan, Spain, England, and Ireland. Acquired from the highly reputable auction house Austin Auction Gallery, est.1983, Austin, Texas. Important Western & Religious Art catalog Dimensions: (approx) 16" High, 10" Wide, 6.5" Deep Condition: Great original antique / vintage condition with nicely aged patina. Includes the original sword, which is very rare. Wear consistent with age and use, including scattered chippy paint losses and worn paint, nothing that detracts from the display but only adds to the overall authenticity, character and old world rustic charm Interesting, colorful, with a unique sculptural form and rich history, this large wooden statue would make for a wonderful decorative object - curiosity in your authentic Mexican hacienda, Santa Fe New Mexico adobe...
Category

Mid-20th Century Mexican Folk Art

Materials

Metal

Folk art side tables
Located in Asbury Park, NJ
Great pair of vintage craftsman made side table. These tables are estimated to be roughly 50 years old and will go nicely with any decor you choose t...
Category

1970s American Vintage Folk Art

Materials

Wood

19th Century Sailor's Woolie of the Ship-Sloop "Coquette"
Located in Nantucket, MA
19th Century Sailor's Woolie of the Ship-Sloop "Coquette," circa 1880, a handcrafted sailor's woolwork picture depicting a larboard side view of a steam-sailor at anchor, fully dress...
Category

Late 19th Century English Antique Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Mid Century Modern Studio Pottery Christmas Ornaments by Peggy Beaver- Set of 39
Located in Cordova, SC
Thirty-nine piece set of Mid Century ceramic pottery Christmas ornaments hand crafted by Peggy Beaver who was quite the artist in Columbia, SC. The white glaze “frosting” has chipped...
Category

1950s American Vintage Folk Art

Materials

Ceramic

Striking Huichol Yarn Painting Signed By Artist Gabriel Bautista
Located in Bridgeport, CT
A small Huichol Yarn Painting on wood board with striking Color and vivid imagery by Artist Gabriel Bautista. The colors range from deep pinks, cobalt, re...
Category

20th Century Mexican Folk Art

Materials

Yarn

A Carved Wooden Owl Statue
Located in Nashua, NH
A beautiful majestic carved Owl in one piece in lovely old brown finish with interestingly carved ears and eyes colored in a yellow background with very dark pupils, very large claws...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Folk Art

Materials

Wood

Vintage 1960s Mexican Folk Art Large Papier-Mâché Hand Painted Angel Candelabra
Located in St. Louis, MO
Impressive 1960s large Mexican folk art hand painted papier-mâché angel with 5 arm candelabra. Hand painted details over white robe, include hair, face, gold gilt rope collar, pink a...
Category

1960s Mexican Vintage Folk Art

Materials

Metal

British Sailor's Woolwork of Royal Navy Ship
Located in Downingtown, PA
British Sailor's Woolwork of Royal Navy Ship, The sailor's woolwork or woolie depicts a starboard view of a Second-Rate Royal Navy Ship with three masts. T...
Category

1870s English Antique Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Vintage Folk Art Wooden Raffle Drum Lottery Ticket Spinner with Original Paint
Located in Savannah, GA
This very colorful pin wheel design wooden raffle drum is constructed in two pieces. The rectangular round drum holds the tickets and contains a metal handle and a latch on a door to access the lottery tickets...
Category

1940s American Vintage Folk Art

Materials

Brass

Found and Salvaged Industrial Steel Object Sculpture Arrangement
Located in Chicago, IL
Made from found industrial objects, this face takes on different looks at every angle. A wedge, sprockets, gears are adhered to a found painted steel plate to complete this "Flatlay Face" Jim Rose Flatlay Face No. 05, 2021 found industrial objects 4.50h x 10.75w x 10.75d in 11.43h x 27.30w x 27.30d cm JR0299 Jim Rose b. 1966, d. 2023 Bio Born in Indiana, Jim Rose lived in Europe until he returned to the United States to attend college. After one year at Bard College, Jim transferred to the School of the Art Institute in Chicago (SAIC) where he graduated in 1988 with a BFA. His skillful interpretation of the Shaker design is a result of intense research and field study of Shaker furniture, architecture, culture and history. After over two decades of dedicated work, he has mastered the minimalism of the Shaker technique and created his own unique visual vernacular. The quilts of Gee's Bend have become a monumental influence taking this artist's work to new levels of unique interpretation and artistry. His selection of aged steel results in a patina directly related to that of aged wood while his colored strips beautifully mimic worn cloth. Each piece of furniture is masterfully made and intended for daily use. Jim Rose’s steel furniture is featured every year at SOFA Chicago for the past 25 years. Jim Rose b. 1966, Wisconsin Education 1989 B.F.A., Sculpture, The School of the Art Institute of Chicago, IL 1988 Student at Large, Welding Technology, Triton College, Chicago, IL 1985 Undergraduate Photography Bard College, Annandale-on-Hudson, New York Awards 2008 Wisconsin Arts Board Fellowship Award, Madison, WI. 2005 Elizabeth R. Raphael Founder’s Prize, Society for Contemporary Craft, Pittsburgh, PA 2003 Grant Recipient for Shaker Interpretations in Cast Iron, PA Arts Assoc / WI Arts Board 2003 Arts/Industry Residency Program for Visual Artists, John Michael Kohler Arts Center, Sheboygan, Wisconsin Solo Exhibitions 2017 New Work, Tory Folliard Gallery, Milwaukee, WI 2012 Simply Steel, Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum, Wausau, WI 2007 Variation, Ann Nathan Gallery, Chicago, IL 2003 New Work, Ann Nathan Gallery, Chicago, IL 2001 Shaker in Steel / New Work, Ann Nathan Gallery, Chicago, IL 2000 Shaker in Steel / New Work, Ann Nathan Gallery, Chicago, IL 1999 Hands and Heart to Steel III, Ann Nathan Gallery, Chicago, IL National Exhibitions 2017-2018 SOFA Chicago – Gallery Victor Armendariz 2016 - 1995 SOFA Chicago, New York, Palm Beach - Ann Nathan Gallery 2011 - 2002 Art Chicago - Ann Nathan Gallery Group Exhibitions 2017 Coming Attractions: Inaugural Exhibition, Gallery Victor Armendariz, Chicago, IL 2017 Living with Art: The Newman Collection, 108 Contemporary, Tulsa, Oklahoma 2016 Form Follows Function: The Intersection of Art and Craft, The Hardy Gallery, Ephraim, Wi 2015 NEO, Chipstone Foundation, Milwaukee Art Museum, Milwaukee, WI 2015 ICFF, Furniture Society, Javits Convention Center, New York City, NY 2013 Vahki Revisited, The Enduring Spirit of a Craft Collection” Mesa Contemporary Arts, Mesa, AZ 2013 Fearless Furniture, Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites, Indianapolis, IN 2013 Inaugural Exhibition, Museum Wisconsin of Art, West Bend, WI 2012 Sitting Pretty: Furniture from RAM’s Collection, Racine Art Museum, WI 2011 Hiding Places: Memory in the Arts, John Michael Kohler Arts Center, WI 2010 Living with Art, Strohl Art Center, Chautauqua Institution, NY 2009 Summer in Wisconsin, Tory Folliard Gallery, Milwaukee, WI 2009 High Honors, James Watrous Gallery, Madison, WI 2008 Second Lives: Remixing the Ordinary, Museum of Art and Design, NY 2007 Transformation 5: Contemporary Works in Found Materials, Art Association, Jackson, WY 2007 Transformation 5: Contemporary Works in Found Materials, Houston Center for Contemporary Craft, Houston, TX (traveling exhibition) 2006 Show us Your Drawers, Herron School of Art, Indianapolis, IN 2006 Marriage of the Minds...
Category

2010s American Folk Art

Materials

Steel

Found and Salvaged Industrial Steel Object Sculpture Arrangement
Located in Chicago, IL
Made from found industrial objects, this face takes on different looks at every angle. A wedge, sprockets, gears are adhered to a found painted steel plate to complete this "Flatlay Face" Jim Rose Flatlay Face No. 07, 2021 found industrial objects 3.25h x 8.25w x 8.25d in 8.26h x 20.95w x 20.95d cm JR0301 Jim Rose b. 1966, d. 2023 Bio Born in Indiana, Jim Rose lived in Europe until he returned to the United States to attend college. After one year at Bard College, Jim transferred to the School of the Art Institute in Chicago (SAIC) where he graduated in 1988 with a BFA. His skillful interpretation of the Shaker design is a result of intense research and field study of Shaker furniture, architecture, culture and history. After over two decades of dedicated work, he has mastered the minimalism of the Shaker technique and created his own unique visual vernacular. The quilts of Gee's Bend have become a monumental influence taking this artist's work to new levels of unique interpretation and artistry. His selection of aged steel results in a patina directly related to that of aged wood while his colored strips beautifully mimic worn cloth. Each piece of furniture is masterfully made and intended for daily use. Jim Rose’s steel furniture is featured every year at SOFA Chicago for the past 25 years. Jim Rose b. 1966, Wisconsin Education 1989 B.F.A., Sculpture, The School of the Art Institute of Chicago, IL 1988 Student at Large, Welding Technology, Triton College, Chicago, IL 1985 Undergraduate Photography Bard College, Annandale-on-Hudson, New York Awards 2008 Wisconsin Arts Board Fellowship Award, Madison, WI. 2005 Elizabeth R. Raphael Founder’s Prize, Society for Contemporary Craft, Pittsburgh, PA 2003 Grant Recipient for Shaker Interpretations in Cast Iron, PA Arts Assoc / WI Arts Board 2003 Arts/Industry Residency Program for Visual Artists, John Michael Kohler Arts Center, Sheboygan, Wisconsin Solo Exhibitions 2017 New Work, Tory Folliard Gallery, Milwaukee, WI 2012 Simply Steel, Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum, Wausau, WI 2007 Variation, Ann Nathan Gallery, Chicago, IL 2003 New Work, Ann Nathan Gallery, Chicago, IL 2001 Shaker in Steel / New Work, Ann Nathan Gallery, Chicago, IL 2000 Shaker in Steel / New Work, Ann Nathan Gallery, Chicago, IL 1999 Hands and Heart to Steel III, Ann Nathan Gallery, Chicago, IL National Exhibitions 2017-2018 SOFA Chicago – Gallery Victor Armendariz 2016 - 1995 SOFA Chicago, New York, Palm Beach - Ann Nathan Gallery 2011 - 2002 Art Chicago - Ann Nathan Gallery Group Exhibitions 2017 Coming Attractions: Inaugural Exhibition, Gallery Victor Armendariz, Chicago, IL 2017 Living with Art: The Newman Collection, 108 Contemporary, Tulsa, Oklahoma 2016 Form Follows Function: The Intersection of Art and Craft, The Hardy Gallery, Ephraim, Wi 2015 NEO, Chipstone Foundation, Milwaukee Art Museum, Milwaukee, WI 2015 ICFF, Furniture Society, Javits Convention Center, New York City, NY 2013 Vahki Revisited, The Enduring Spirit of a Craft Collection” Mesa Contemporary Arts, Mesa, AZ 2013 Fearless Furniture, Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites, Indianapolis, IN 2013 Inaugural Exhibition, Museum Wisconsin of Art, West Bend, WI 2012 Sitting Pretty: Furniture from RAM’s Collection, Racine Art Museum, WI 2011 Hiding Places: Memory in the Arts, John Michael Kohler Arts Center, WI 2010 Living with Art, Strohl Art Center, Chautauqua Institution, NY 2009 Summer in Wisconsin, Tory Folliard Gallery, Milwaukee, WI 2009 High Honors, James Watrous Gallery, Madison, WI 2008 Second Lives: Remixing the Ordinary, Museum of Art and Design, NY 2007 Transformation 5: Contemporary Works in Found Materials, Art Association, Jackson, WY 2007 Transformation 5: Contemporary Works in Found Materials, Houston Center for Contemporary Craft, Houston, TX (traveling exhibition) 2006 Show us Your Drawers, Herron School of Art, Indianapolis, IN 2006 Marriage of the Minds...
Category

2010s American Folk Art

Materials

Steel

Mid Century Large Motorized Hand Made Chris Craft Cabin Cruiser C1955
By Chris Craft Boats
Located in Port Jervis, NY
Fabulous and large cabin cruiser boat model with an untested motor and batteries. 41.5 inches long and sitting on a brand new custom made stand with a nautical theme. In very good vi...
Category

1950s American Vintage Folk Art

Materials

Metal

Rare Antique Distressed Carousel Horse on Iron Stand Sculpture
Located in Hopewell, NJ
Fantastic antique found unpainted carousel horse form having distressed wood, amazing character, and handsome custom iron stand. Makes a stunning folk art sculpture with monochromat...
Category

1930s American Vintage Folk Art

Materials

Wood

Found and Salvaged Steel Structure on a Wooden Base
Located in Chicago, IL
Jim Rose, known primarily for his steel furniture, was an avid collector and scoured salvage yards for unique and interesting items. Here, a collection of spare parts come together ...
Category

2010s American Folk Art

Materials

Metal, Steel

Sailor's Woolie of the American Protected Cruiser "USS Chicago", circa 1885
Located in Nantucket, MA
Antique Sailor's Woolie of the American Protected Cruiser "USS Chicago", circa 1885, a sailor's hand crafted folk art woolwork picture of a bark-rigged auxiliary steam sailor with in...
Category

1880s American Antique Folk Art

Materials

Wool

British Sailor's Naive Woolwork of Royal Navy Ship H.M.S. St George
Located in Downingtown, PA
British Sailor's Woolwork of Royal Navy Ship H.M.S. St George, Circa 1860 A naive sailor's woolie with a Portside view of the H.M.S St. George, named below on a red banner, th...
Category

Mid-19th Century Antique Folk Art

Materials

Wool

A monumental vintage Pyramid Pencil Company wood trade sign.
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A monumental vintage Pyramid Pencil Company wood trade sign. Great for a man cave or restaurant!
Category

20th Century American Folk Art

Materials

Wood, Paint

Vintage American Folk Art Carved Painted Candlestick Statue Pair
Located in Forney, TX
Add rich decorative character, whimsical elegance and rustic warmth with this one-of-a-kind pair of two vintage American folk art candle sculptures. Primitive handmade slatted solid...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Folk Art

Materials

Wood, Paint

Jim Rose - Wire Dog, Repurposed Heavy Wire Dog Sculpture, Cylindrical Metal Base
Located in Chicago, IL
Jim Rose, known primarily for his steel furniture, was an avid collector and scoured salvage yards for unique, interesting items. Here he has taken heavy gauge wire and formed it into a simple dog and placed it upon a salvaged steel cylinder. These repurposed items combine to form this small simple sculpture that will sure to bring a smile to its owner. Jim Rose Objects No. 04 Found and Collected Objects 6.50h x 6w x 10.50d in 16.51h x 15.24w x 26.67d cm JR0291 Jim Rose b. 1966, d. 2023 Bio Born in Indiana, Jim Rose lived in Europe until he returned to the United States to attend college. After one year at Bard College, Jim transferred to the School of the Art Institute in Chicago (SAIC) where he graduated in 1988 with a BFA. His skillful interpretation of the Shaker design is a result of intense research and field study of Shaker furniture, architecture, culture and history. After over two decades of dedicated work, he has mastered the minimalism of the Shaker technique and created his own unique visual vernacular. The quilts of Gee's Bend have become a monumental influence taking this artist's work to new levels of unique interpretation and artistry. His selection of aged steel results in a patina directly related to that of aged wood while his colored strips beautifully mimic worn cloth. Each piece of furniture is masterfully made and intended for daily use. Jim Rose’s steel furniture is featured every year at SOFA Chicago for the past 25 years. Jim Rose b. 1966, Wisconsin Education 1989 B.F.A., Sculpture, The School of the Art Institute of Chicago, IL 1988 Student at Large, Welding Technology, Triton College, Chicago, IL 1985 Undergraduate Photography Bard College, Annandale-on-Hudson, New York Awards 2008 Wisconsin Arts Board Fellowship Award, Madison, WI. 2005 Elizabeth R. Raphael Founder’s Prize, Society for Contemporary Craft, Pittsburgh, PA 2003 Grant Recipient for Shaker Interpretations in Cast Iron, PA Arts Assoc / WI Arts Board 2003 Arts/Industry Residency Program for Visual Artists, John Michael Kohler Arts Center, Sheboygan, Wisconsin Solo Exhibitions 2023 Jim Rose CODA, Gallery Victor, Chicago, IL 2020 Unseen, Gallery Victor Armendariz, Chicago, IL 2017 New Work, Tory Folliard Gallery, Milwaukee, WI 2012 Simply Steel, Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum, Wausau, WI 2007 Variation, Ann Nathan Gallery, Chicago, IL 2003 New Work, Ann Nathan Gallery, Chicago, IL 2001 Shaker in Steel / New Work, Ann Nathan Gallery, Chicago, IL 2000 Shaker in Steel / New Work, Ann Nathan Gallery, Chicago, IL 1999 Hands and Heart to Steel III, Ann Nathan Gallery, Chicago, IL National Exhibitions 2023 Intersect Palm Springs, Gallery Victor, Palm Springs, CA 2018 SOFA Chicago 2018, Gallery Victor Armendariz, Chicago, IL Art Market Hamptons, Gallery Victor Armendariz, Bridgehampton, NY Art on Paper, Gallery Victor, Metropolitan Pavilion, New York, NY 2017 - 2019 SOFA Chicago – Gallery Victor Armendariz 2016 - 1995 SOFA Chicago, New York, Palm Beach - Ann Nathan Gallery 2011 - 2002 Art Chicago - Ann Nathan Gallery Group Exhibitions 2017 Coming Attractions: Inaugural Exhibition, Gallery Victor Armendariz, Chicago, IL 2017 Living with Art: The Newman Collection, 108 Contemporary, Tulsa, Oklahoma 2016 Form Follows Function: The Intersection of Art and Craft, The Hardy Gallery, Ephraim, Wi 2015 NEO, Chipstone Foundation, Milwaukee Art Museum, Milwaukee, WI 2015 ICFF, Furniture Society, Javits Convention Center, New York City, NY 2013 Vahki Revisited, The Enduring Spirit of a Craft Collection” Mesa Contemporary Arts, Mesa, AZ 2013 Fearless Furniture, Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites, Indianapolis, IN 2013 Inaugural Exhibition, Museum Wisconsin of Art, West Bend, WI 2012 Sitting Pretty: Furniture from RAM’s Collection, Racine Art Museum, WI 2011 Hiding Places: Memory in the Arts, John Michael Kohler Arts Center, WI 2010 Living with Art, Strohl Art Center, Chautauqua Institution, NY 2009 Summer in Wisconsin, Tory Folliard Gallery, Milwaukee, WI 2009 High Honors, James Watrous Gallery, Madison, WI 2008 Second Lives: Remixing the Ordinary, Museum of Art and Design, NY 2007 Transformation 5: Contemporary Works in Found Materials, Art Association, Jackson, WY 2007 Transformation 5: Contemporary Works in Found Materials, Houston Center for Contemporary Craft, Houston, TX (traveling exhibition) 2006 Show us Your Drawers, Herron School of Art, Indianapolis, IN 2006 Marriage of the Minds...
Category

2010s American Folk Art

Materials

Metal, Steel

Jim Rose Barn House Structure, Welded Steel Sculpture Made with Salvaged Steel
Located in Chicago, IL
This is a welded steel sculpture made by furniture creator Jim Rose. It is sustainable design created from salvaged and recycled steel panels left over from his larger projects. Thes...
Category

2010s American Folk Art

Materials

Steel

Large Modern Abstract Impasto Oil Painting on Board, "Night Club" Jazz
Located in Buffalo, NY
Large Modern Abstract Impasto Oil Painting on Board, "Night Club" Jazz,,Unfortunately illegible signature. Great use of color, space, movement, depicting night club "jazz" scene, Mus...
Category

1950s American Vintage Folk Art

Materials

Masonite, Paint

Salampasu Warrior Mask
Located in Chicago, IL
Divided into contrasting tones, this ceremonial African mask is linked to the Salampasu people of the Bantu ethnic group located primarily in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Salampasu masks...
Category

Mid-20th Century Congolese Folk Art

Materials

Wood, Paint

19th Century Sailor's Woolie of HMS Avenger, circa 1847
Located in Nantucket, MA
19th Century Sailor's Woolie of HMS Avenger, circa 1847, a sailor's hand crafted woolwork picture of the Sidewheel Paddle Frigate HMS AVENGER (1845 -1847), a starboard side view of the small bark rigged auxuliary steam sailer with fore and main topsails backed, all other sails furled, under a dramatic sky, with silk banner...
Category

1840s English Antique Folk Art

Materials

Wool

19th Century Faux Grain Painted Chest
Located in Nantucket, MA
19th Century Faux Grain Painted Chest, second half 19th Century, a diminutive six board chest with excellent quality original vinegar grain painted finish in a faux yellow pine patte...
Category

19th Century American Antique Folk Art

Materials

Pine

American Folk Art House Sculpture
Located in Chicago, IL
Embark on a journey through color and creativity with this 20th-century American Folk Art sculpture, a whimsical homage to the Chicago Imagist style, e...
Category

20th Century American Folk Art

Materials

Wood

Duluth Fish Decoy American Folk Art Carved Painted Orca Killer Whale Sculpture
By Duluth
Located in Forney, TX
A scarce early Duluth Fish Decoy American folk art sculpture, depicting a Orca killer whale, hand-carved by the late David Earl Perkins (Duluth, Minnesota, 1934-2018), featuring the realistic original hand-painted black finish with cream white accents, glass eyes and metal fins, signed at the underside "DFD", on a lead weight. circa 1960s/1970s Originally based on lures used for winter spear fishing, see below for the Duluth Fish Decoy story. - Dimensions: (approx) 8" Wide, 3.25" High, 4.75" Deep - Provenance / Acquisition: Property from a prominent Dallas, Texas estate Acquired from highly reputable auction house, Austin Auction Gallery, est.1983, Austin, Texas - Very good original vintage condition with beautifully aged patina and typical wear, character and charm - The Duluth Fish Decoys Story: (From the DFD website and in the words of Dave & Jim Perkins) "I guess it all started when I speared my first northern pike – what a thrill.  The only thing better was to spear one lured in with a decoy I made myself. I made more decoys to spear more fish and found out I liked making decoys as much as spearing northerns.  Well, soon enough, my decoy/lunch box had more decoys than lunch. So I laid off the making and stepped up the spearing. Then when the fish tore them up and they scraped up against each other in the lunch box and they rolled around on the floor of the dark-house they weathered with an aged, charactered, antique patina.  It wasn't long before friends paid more mind to my spearing decoys than my fish stories.  Said they’d like to have some to set on the mantle – said they were folky.  So I laid off the spearing and stepped up the carving. Now I've been making DFD (Duluth Fish Decoys) spearing  decoys for longer than I want to admit – they say you’re only as old as you think you are. Being on the north side of seventy, I been making them for… let’s just say a long time.   I don’t know a web site from a stick of fire wood but the kids and grand-kids have been pestering me to get one for years. In fact, I told Jim, you make the web thing and I'll make the decoys that go on it.  But with the demand being more than I can keep up with, he's been making them right alongside of me - just like when he was a kid. Great to keep it in the family - two generations of DFD. Who'd of thunk it.   What a hoot it’s been to create something so enjoyed by others. Along the way our DFD decoys have ended up in The American Museum of Folk Art, on a limited edition print, in a governor’s mansion, in Hollywood actors' homes, in fishing decoy books, with interior designers, in art galleries, on a DVD, and now in a coffee table book devoted entirely to DFD.  What a hobby it’s been – what a blessing of God.   I hope to continue as long as my health holds out.   Lo, these many years later our DFD spearing decoys are still hand-crafted with that aged, weathered, antique patina.  As with all folk art there’s no two alike.  The pictures give the length of the decoy but it may vary by a half an inch.  They all have glass eyes and are hand painted with a brush – no air brush for us. The lead belly...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Folk Art

Materials

Metal

Painted Guatemalan Patrón Face Mask
Located in Chicago, IL
This colorfully painted and expertly carved mask was once used in one of the oldest Guatemalan dance performances, the Baile del Patzcar. Still practiced today, this dance evolved fr...
Category

20th Century Guatemalan Folk Art

Materials

Wood, Paint

Benin-Style Bronze Figural Pipe Mouthpiece
Located in Chicago, IL
World-renowned for high-quality lost wax casting, the city of Benin in West Africa has been a leading producer of fine cast brass and bronze sculptures since as early as the 16th cen...
Category

Late 19th Century Nigerian Antique Folk Art

Materials

Bronze

Memento Mori American 19th Century
Located in Hudson, NY
Rare American folk-art Memento Mori of Hiram Aluro Hill, died age 11, 1845. Good penmanship, watercolor and albumin glaze with borders intact. Foster brothers of Boston frame. This was purchased from...
Category

Early 19th Century American Antique Folk Art

Materials

Wood, Paper

Carved Big Cat Figures - Set of 3
Located in Bradenton, FL
A set of three carved big cats. A tiger, a snow leopard, and a serval are carved in wood and vibrantly decorated in yellow, orange, and red, with black spots and lines. Each cat is p...
Category

Late 20th Century Folk Art

Materials

Wood

Mason Premier Grade Bluebill Drake, circa 1920
Located in Nantucket, MA
Antique Mason Premier Grade Bluebill Drake Decoy, circa 1920, having head with glass eyes and carved mandible, nares and nail on bill, attached to hollow carved two part body (seam i...
Category

1920s American Vintage Folk Art

Materials

Wood

Large 20th C. Americana Folk Art Carousel with Painted Farm Animals
Located in Morristown, NJ
20th c., Large Folk Art carousel with animals on a rotating base.Made of wood and canvas construction, with leather and other accent materials unsigned. The animals depicted are a ho...
Category

1940s American Vintage Folk Art

Materials

Canvas, Wood, Paint

Original Vintage Hand-Carved Relief Panel Fragment depicting a Bird
Located in Leesburg, VA
Original Vintage Hand-Carved Relief Panel Fragment depicting a Bird Anonymous Southern Asia, probably India; first-half of the 20th century Wood Approximate size: 7.8 x 2.6 x 9.2 i...
Category

Early 20th Century Indian Folk Art

Materials

Wood

Mounted Late 19th Century American Appliqué Textile
Located in Chicago, IL
Transport yourself to the late 19th century with this exquisite American appliqué textile, a testament to traditional craftsmanship. At its heart, a ...
Category

Late 19th Century American Antique Folk Art

Materials

Cotton, Linen

Folk Art folk art for sale on 1stDibs.

Find a broad range of unique folk art for sale on 1stDibs. Many of these items were first offered in the 21st Century and Contemporary, but contemporary artisans have continued to produce works inspired by this style. If you’re looking to add vintage folk art created in this style to your space, the works available on 1stDibs include folk art, decorative objects, wall decorations and other home furnishings, frequently crafted with wood, metal and other materials. If you’re shopping for used Folk Art made in a specific country, there are North America, United States, and Europe pieces for sale on 1stDibs. While there are many designers and brands associated with original folk art, popular names associated with this style include Berber Tribes of Morocco, Mosche Bianche, Jim Rose, and Nils Olsson. It’s true that these talented designers have at times inspired knockoffs, but our experienced specialists have partnered with only top vetted sellers to offer authentic pieces that come with a buyer protection guarantee. Prices for folk art differ depending upon multiple factors, including designer, materials, construction methods, condition and provenance. On 1stDibs, the price for these items starts at $35 and tops out at $49,500 while the average work can sell for $1,387.

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