Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
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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Style: Folk Art
Set of 4 snuff bottles, filigree glass 1920s tobacco bohemian forest, Germany
Located in Wien, AT
Set of four early glass snuff bottles, very rare from the 1920s, made of one of the glassworks in the Bohemian Forest, Germany.
These are collection items that were made to a master...
Category
1920s German Vintage Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Blown Glass
Antique Paper Mache Doll, France, 1930s
Located in Antwerp, BE
Antique paper mache doll circa 1930s.
A French antique doll made of hand-painted papier-mâché with stone hands.
Beautiful painted eyes, eye...
Category
Mid-20th Century French Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Paper
Vintage Wind Up Tin Toy "Monkey Riding A Horse" by Haji Co., Japan, Circa 1958
Located in Incline Village, NV
Made in Tokyo, Japan by The Haji Company (see image for mark/logo), this all tin vintage wind up toy, circa 1958, depicts a "Monkey Riding A Horse". It ...
Category
1950s Japanese Vintage Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Tin
Two Deer Antler Mount Trophy on Black Forest Carved Wood Plaque from Austria
Located in Nuernberg, DE
A set of two vintage Black Forest deer antler trophies on hand carved, Black Forest wooden plaques. I think they are from the early 20th Century probably betw...
Category
20th Century Austrian Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Antler, Wood
Pig & Chimney Sweep Lucky Charm, Candy Secret Chamber Container, Antique, 1900s
Located in Nuernberg, DE
A beautiful golden pig candy container or container with secret chamber. Made from white metal, hand painted with cold paint like the bronze Vienna minia...
Category
Early 20th Century Austrian Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Metal
19th Century Hand Carved Ship's Carved and Gilded Trailboard
Located in Nantucket, MA
19th Century Hand Carved Ship's Carved and Gilded Trailboard, Second Half 19th Century, a carved and shaped plaque that is upswept and narrowing towards th...
Category
19th Century American Antique Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Wood
Rare Set of Four House, Teddy Bear and Fish Christmas Ornament Vintage, 1930s
Located in Nuernberg, DE
A rare Christmas ornament set of four. Each is made from mouth blown glass, this would be a great addition for your Christmas or feather tree. Size alwa...
Category
1930s German Vintage Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Wire
Antique Real Skull of a Rabbit, Germany ca. 1900s
Located in Berghuelen, DE
Antique Real Skull of a Rabbit, Germany ca. 1900s
An antique taxidermied skull of the rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) mounted on an ebonized wooden tur...
Category
Late 19th Century German Antique Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Bone, Wood
Large Antique German Chocolate Mold with Bunnies and Chickens
Located in Redding, CT
Large Antique German Chocolate Mold with Bunnies and Chickens. Nice hinged double door German chocolate mold. The molds themselves have ...
Category
Early 20th Century German Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Tin
Bavarian Votiv Tablet early 19th century
Located in Wien, AT
Bavarian Votiv Tablet early 19th century.
Jesus on the cross and poor souls in purgatory Oil in wood, early 19th century.
Very nice original condition with...
Category
Early 19th Century German Antique Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Wood
Vintage Tin Wind Up Toy "Boy Skier" by J. Chein & Co. American Circa 1950
Located in Incline Village, NV
Very nice condition all tin, vintage wind up toy by J. Chein Company, New York City, circa 1950, "Boy Skier"; in all original paint and lithography; in ...
Category
1950s American Vintage Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Tin
Rare Mushroom, Clown and Boy Head Christmas Ornament Vintage, 1930s
Located in Nuernberg, DE
A rare Christmas ornament set of three. Each is made from mouth blown glass, this would be a great addition for your Christmas or feather tree. Size alw...
Category
1930s German Vintage Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Wire
Blown Glass Blue Baby Shoe/Boot Christmas Ornament w/ White Glitter Paint
Located in Clifton Forge, VA
This little blown glass Christmas ornament baby boot is as sweet as can be! It is in good condition and would make a fabulous gift for a baby's f...
Category
Late 20th Century Unknown Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Blown Glass, Paint
Two Roe Deer Antler Mount Trophy on Black Forest Carved Wood Plaque from Austria
Located in Nuernberg, DE
A set of two vintage Black Forest deer antler trophies on hand carved, Black Forest wooden plaques. I think they are from the early 20th Century. Measurement'...
Category
Early 20th Century Austrian Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Antler, Wood
Vintage Pine & Cedar Canoe Scale Model - Canada - Mid 20th Century
Located in Chatham, ON
Vintage pine and cedar canoe scale model - featuring a detailed interior with two seats and fixed oars - the exterior base stained medium walnut, the cedar and pine left natural - un...
Category
Mid-20th Century Canadian Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Cedar, Pine
Vintage Toy by Lindstrom Dancing Dutch Boy Playing Accordion American Circa 1930
Located in Incline Village, NV
Very difficult antique toy to come by, especially to find with the original box, as this example. In excellent and all original condition and paint in bright blue, white, and yellow paint and lithography with no touch up; there is zero restoration, and the toy is in outstanding operating condition; just wind up the attached wind up key on the back of the boy and the he dances around in a circular motion for quite some time while seemingly playing his accordion (see the video attached). "Dancing Dutch Boy" is an all tin wind up toy...
Category
1930s American Vintage Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Tin
Early Vintage Chein Company All Tin Toy Wind-Up Limousine, American, Circa 1930
Located in Incline Village, NV
This is one of the earlier, New York City based, J. Chein Company, tin toy pieces. They started doing lithography in 1930.
This toy wind-up sedan was made circa 1930 and is brightly ...
Category
1930s American Vintage Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Tin
Antique Hand Tooled Leather African Tribal Moroccan Bag Collectible, 1940s
Located in North Hollywood, CA
Antique collectible leather African Moroccan satchel bag with flap decorated with traditional Moorish embroideries.
Hand-tooled in Marrakech, this is an old antique shoulder slim bag, merchants in Morocco when traveling used this bag under their coat to put their money and valuables and medicine.
This messenger shoulder leather African bag is one of a kind and reflect the folk artwork of the Berber Tribes of Morocco.
Antique leather African Moroccan satchel bag with flap decorated with traditional Berber embroideries.
Antique collectible leather bag, handmade in Morocco.
True vintage Berber bag collectible piece of decorative wall art. The leather is hand embroidered.
Artisan hand tooled very unusual and rare leather bag. Handmade from thick tan leather.
The strap is long enough to wear the bag at the shoulder or cross-body with it sitting above the hip. Under the flap, you'll find one long narrow main pocket.
This beautiful leather bag has been crafted in Morocco. This bag has a fold over fastening.
The bag craftsmanship embroidered consists of geometrical Moroccan Moorish designs.
This messenger shoulder leather African bag will be great as Moroccan Art wall decoration, just hanging from a hook or framed in a plexiglass presentation box.
Dimensions: H 9 in. x W 10.5 in. x D 0.75 in.
Total length 29 in. strap is 20 in.
circa 1920.
This messenger shoulder leather North African exotic bag...
Category
Early 20th Century Moroccan Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Leather
German Tinplate Clockwork Wind Up Toy by the Lehman Co. "Balky Mule" Circa 1909
Located in Incline Village, NV
Perhaps the wildest action of all the Lehman toys, said to resemble Ernest Paul Lehman's temperament (founder of the company), "Balky Mule" was first manufactured in 1897 in Berlin (Brandenburg), and had a multi decade run; this example is from around 1909 (see image with markings to the rear of the carriage). The toy is catalogued as "EPL #425" and documented on page 59 and 60 of the book "Lehman Toys" by Jurgen & Marianne Cieslik, published in 1982.
To operate the toy; wind up the attached clockwork key on the underneath of the carriage and place the toy on the floor. Do not over-wind and be gentle, as the toy is aggressive and over 100 years old. The toy will go backwards and forward, and the clown will pop up and down as the cart goes in several different directions across the floor until it winds down (see video accompanying the listing for guidance).
The toy is found broken and/or inoperable, more often than not, because of the rough action, and typical abuse by children (after all, it was a toy).
This example is in very nice original condition and works well. The lithography and hand paint is bright and original with no touch up or repaint. The hand paint is; flesh tones to the face of the clown, red trousers, orange hair, and grey paint to the seat of the carriage. The clothing to the clown figure is still intact and all original. The lithography to the wheels features brightly colored clowns and a German marking logo. What is really unusual is the fact that the donkey still has all four of its loosely attached original legs, considering the aggressive action of the toy. The metal on the donkey is actually treated with "fabric like" paint, to simulate fur.
All in all this is a really cool toy and a "must have" for the collector of tin toys, or someone who simply wants a wonderful example of an early, "turn of the century" iconic wind up toy.
Provenance: Recently acquired from a prominent toy collection in Los Angeles, California
Dimensions: 7 1/2" long x 3" wide x 5" high
Note: After 40 plus years of dealing and collecting toys, I am justly qualified to guarantee and present the authenticity of antique and vintage toys and children's playthings; important considering the fakes and reproductions in the marketplace
it would behoove an enterprising collector, dealer, or decorator to take advantage of the opportunity to buy as many of the vintage tin...
Category
Early 1900s German Antique Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Tin
Japanese Puzzle Bank Portrays A Building Bank "National Savings Bank" Circa 1948
Located in Incline Village, NV
Quite an unusual piece for bank collectors or just for those seeking a unique collectible. This is a coin bank made of all wood; walnut and inlay here and there with a green painted ...
Category
1940s Japanese Vintage Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Wood
Beautiful Black Forest Frame Antique Folk Art with Jesus Child Picture, 1890s
Located in Nuernberg, DE
A lovely picture frame made of hand carved wood, made in Germany with a picture of Jesus and a Child. Found at an estate sale in Nuremberg, Germany. It is not marked. A nice addition...
Category
1890s German Antique Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Glass, Wood
Vintage French Hour Sand Glass in Pewter
Located in Haddonfield, NJ
French Pewter and Sand 15 Minutes Hour Glass
Category
1920s French Vintage Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Pewter
Collection of Three Pig in Pot Lucky Charm Figurines Antique German 1900s
Located in Nuernberg, DE
A beautiful collection of golden pig lucky charm figurines. Made from china porcelain. Such items are given away as good luck charms on New Year's Eve. Nice...
Category
Early 20th Century Austrian Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Composition, Metal
Artificial Smoked Parma Ham Country Kitchen Folk Art Decoration Vintage 1950s
Located in Nuernberg, DE
A vintage Belgium Decorative Item nice to display in your country style home or kitchen. Found at an Estate Sale in Brussels, Belgium.
Category
1950s Belgian Vintage Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Plastic, Rubber
Bavarian Votiv Tablet 19th century
Located in Wien, AT
Bavarian Votiv Tablet 19th century.
Jesus at the scourge pillar, Oil on wood, dated 1840.
Very nice original condition.
Category
Mid-19th Century German Antique Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Wood
Vintage Free Wheeling Green Lithographed All Tin Racing Car. French, Circa 1930
Located in Incline Village, NV
Circa 1930's free wheeling green lithographed all tin racing car, with attached pressed steel driver; it is probably of French manufacturer (the only time I have seen for sale was from a French toy dealer). This scarce toy has markings resembling early racing cars with the streamlined style graphics in yellow and green; standard grill; exhaust four manifolds to each side, and a spare tire attached to the rear; looks like an early Le Mans type car with the spare (see images). Other markings include the number "3:" on each side; "510 x 1" on the rear tire"; and probably the makers mark and logo, which I can't identify, on the top right behind the driver (see images).
Not being a wind-up or a friction toy, this racing car was pushed across the floor by hand or/and used as an accessory in a toy train layout...
Category
1930s French Vintage Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Tin
19th Century Child's Platform Rocking Horse "Glider". American. Circa 1875
Located in Incline Village, NV
Of American manufacture, circa 1875, this authentic children's platform rocking horse "glider" is hand carved of hard wood, and has a hand craft...
Category
1870s American Antique Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Wood, Leather
Marx "Wonder Cyclist" American Circa 1930
Located in Incline Village, NV
Marx "Wonder Cyclist" is the earlier version of this wind-up "Boy on a Tricycle" toy; and not to be confused with the later version by Unique Art called "Kiddy Cyclist". This toy featured is MUCH more rare and more sought after by collectors of early tin wind up toys...
Category
1830s American Antique Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Metal
"Boy Riding a Turtle" Wind-Up Toy; by J. Chein, circa 1930s
Located in Incline Village, NV
By J. Chein, circa 1930, this tin lithographed and hand painted American tin wind-up toy is all original and in working order. There are a few scratches here and there (from normal play and use); but for a nearly 100 year old toy, it is in very good and all original paint with no touch up or restoration. The turtle is painted in colors of yellow (predominantly) with a turquoise border and red dots, and an orange neck; while the boy is dressed in yellow.
The action of the toy portrays a boy riding a turtle; and upon winding up the attached clockwork key and releasing on the floor, the turtle with boy rider, ride away! The turtle moves his head up and down while the boy rocks up and down, as the turtle moves across the floor (see attached 12 second video of operation). Works well (unique for this toy) but occasionally "sticks".
Of American manufacturer (marked on the left of center of the shell of the turtle), the J. Chein Company was in Harrison, New Jersey, and one of the premier toy makers of the 1930's.
Dimensions: 8" long x 4 1/2" wide x 4" high
Note: After 40 plus years of dealing and collecting toys, I am justly qualified to guarantee and present the authenticity of antique and vintage toys...
Category
1930s American Vintage Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Tin
Artificial Smoked Ham Country Kitchen Folk Art Decoration Vintage Belgium 1950s
Located in Nuernberg, DE
A vintage Belgium Decorative Item nice to display in your country style home or kitchen. Found at an Estate Sale in Brussels, Belgium.
Category
1950s Belgian Vintage Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Plastic, Rubber
Artificial Pepperoni Sausage Country Kitchen Folk Art Decoration Vintage 1950s
Located in Nuernberg, DE
A vintage Belgium Decorative Item nice to display in your country style home or kitchen. Found at an Estate Sale in Brussels, Belgium.
Category
1950s Belgian Vintage Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Plastic, Rubber
Artificial Smoked Ham Country Kitchen Folk Art Decoration Vintage Belgium 1950s
Located in Nuernberg, DE
A vintage Belgium Decorative Item nice to display in your country style home or kitchen. Found at an Estate Sale in Brussels, Belgium.
Category
1950s Belgian Vintage Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Plastic, Rubber
19th Century Hand Written Persian Book
Located in London, GB
19th century oil on board of a Blacksmith
Of rectangular form, the papier Mache and ebonised cover is finely painted, covered in flowers and a circular motif to the central section...
Category
1850s Unknown Antique Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Paper
Four Piece Furniture Doll Set. All Tin. Circa 1950's
Located in Incline Village, NV
All tin; circa 1950's four piece doll furniture set, scaled to fit and accommodate all of your 8" or so dolls from that era, e.g. "Muffie, Ginnette, etc".
Display your dolls around this ensemble consisting of a clothing wardrobe...
Category
1950s American Vintage Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Tin
Vintage Tin Wind Up Toy by Lindstrom, "Dancing Katinka" American, Circa 1930
Located in Incline Village, NV
Antique toys like this (wind ups) are difficult to find in outstanding operating condition as this one (see the video attached) because of the rough play they would have received from the children who owned them. In very good and all original condition and paint in green, white, yellow, and flesh tone; the paint and lithography has no touch up or repaint of any kind; there is zero restoration.
To operate, just turn clockwise the attached clockwork wind up key on the back of the girl and the she dances around in a circular motion for quite some time. "Dancing Katinka" is an all tin wind up toy...
Category
1930s American Vintage Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Tin
American Three Masted Clipper Ship in Bottle on Original Wood Stand, Circa 1880
Located in Hollywood, SC
American three masted clipper ship in bottle with cloth rigging in full sail on a painted sea, flanked by a sea side town with evergreen trees, a pain...
Category
1880s American Antique Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Glass, Wood, Paint
(Ten) Assorted Metal Still Coin Banks; Circa 1950's-'70's
Located in Incline Village, NV
Nine out of these ten banks are of American manufacture, made between the 1950's and the 1970's, while one (the Well's Fargo Stage Coach) was made in China, circa 1990's.
Banthrico, Incorporated (Chicago) made four of these banks, while similar type companies made the other six. They manufactured coin savings banks for banking institutions who used them as premiums to those who opened up a savings account. In the case of young children they were given to them to encourage thrift and savings. These (10) banks are a representation of that era 1950 to early 1970's, encompassing enticing savings themes. They were always made of white metal, and typically plated; usually in a copper finish.
All of the banks listed below are pictured front, back, and bottom. Four of the banks lack the coin holding trap, which is quite common, as it was typical for children to toss them or lose them eventually upon removing the money from the bank.
1) "Pirate Bank"
Circa 1950's; depicts a pirate sitting on top of a treasure chest with a parrot on his shoulder, protecting his booty. Typical original copper finish in white metal; measures 5 1/2" high x 4 1/2" wide x 3 1/2" deep. Copyright marking to the rear "55" , perhaps 1955. Has the coin trap holder but lacks the circular coin trap. Very good condition.
Referenced #335 "The Penny Bank Book" by Andy Moore (published 1984)(
2) "Eagle on Cliff"
Made by Banthrico Incorporated and dated 1976 (Americana Bicentennial commemoration bank) portrays a proud American eagle perched on a cliff; nice detail to original copper finish with original coin trap in near mint condition.
6 3/8" high. Made for "United Savings Bank"
Referenced #145 "Coin Banks by Banthrico" by Jim Redwine (published 2001)
3) "Covered Wagon"
Made by Banthrico Incorporated and from the 1950's, by "The Union Banking Company"; depicts a fully loaded chuck wagon with buckets, and a chest ":parked" on western terrain. Finished with copper finish to white metal, with the typical saw tooth coin trap intact, in excellent and all original condition.
4 5/8" long
Referenced #432 "Coin Banks by Banthrico" by Jim Redwine (published 2001)
4) "Well's Fargo Stagecoach Bank"
Later made promotional bank by Well's Fargo banking institution; in all original and complete condition with original paint colors of red, yellow, and black, authentic looking stagecoach; in very good condition with coin trap intact and no repaint, restoration or dents.
4 3/4" long
5) "Three Little Pigs"
Inscribed on front base plate, all original condition with coin trap intact. Slight manufacturing "blow hole" at base of one of the pigs (see image specific to this); unknown manufacture. Made of copper; measures 5" high.
6) "Indian Chief"
Put out by "The Multnomah Bank of Portland,m Oregon; depicts an Indian Chief in full feathered head dress and chieftain regalia; with typical Banthrico Company original copper finish and Banthrico original coin trap to the base.
Measures 5" high. Circa 1962
Referenced #27 "Coin Banks by Banthrico" by Jim Redwine (published 2001)
7) "Shoe House" Bank
Mistakenly called "Old Lady and the Shoe Bank"; this particular bank is of unknown manufacture (could be early Banthrico bank...
Category
Mid-20th Century Unknown Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Metal
Meerschaum Pipe Bowl with Silver Mountings by Klinkosch
Located in London, GB
Meerschaum pipe bowl with silver mountings by Klinkosch
Austro-Hungarian, Late 19th Century
Height 19cm, width 21cm, depth 9cm
Emerging from the annals of late 19th-century Austro-H...
Category
Late 19th Century Austrian Antique Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Silver
Rare pocket watch stand, miniature armchair, antler boar thooth, 1900, Tramp Art
Located in Wien, AT
Very nice and rare example of a pocket watch stand, in form of a miniature armchair, made around 1900-1910 in Austria or South Germany / Black Fores...
Category
Early 1900s Austrian Antique Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Antler
"Drummer Boy" Tin-wind-up Toy by Louis Marx, New York City, circa 1940's
Located in Incline Village, NV
This 1940's "Drummer Boy" brightly colored lithographed tin wind-up toy capitalizes on the popularity of marching bands, spawned from World War II and the preponderance of patriotism...
Category
1940s American Vintage Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Tin
Antique Silver Repousse Islamic Talisman Holder
Located in North Hollywood, CA
Antique Silver Repousse Islamic Talisman box Holder.
Large Berber tribal ethnic talisman pendant holder.
In triangular shape, silver repousse talisman miniature case which would have stored select verses of the Koran Revelation considered to hold special protective powers.
This would have originally been worn by someone to protect from the evil eye.
The front has intricate, dense design., the back is plain, the box have been sealed and soldered to protect the scriptures.
Large silver triangle pendant with hanging beads, embossed silver metal with geometrical relief and repousse.
This beautiful antique ethnic piece could be worn as a piece of jewelry, pendant or pin broch, necklace, pendant.
Silver Metal triangle shaped box with eleven hanging charms that will makes sounds to push away any bad spirit when moving.
Great Islamic Folk Art, metal work, bold, beautiful and musical.
The containers would have also held a miniature paper scroll containing a combination of prayers and Koranic verses.
Material: German nickel silver.
circa 1920s. Probably from North India, Kashmir, but similar to the North African Berber and Tuareg Jewelry...
Category
Early 20th Century Moroccan Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Silver
Vintage Pre-War Wind-Up Toy "Boy on Motorcycle Delivery Truck" by Marx
Located in Incline Village, NV
This brightly lithographed tin wind-up toy in colors of red, yellow, and blue, with a driver dressed in appropriate motorcycle clothing, depicts a young man driving a delivery cart with "Speed Boy Delivery" printed on each side of the wagon. The manufacturers logo is clearly marked on both sides of the stake wagon and on the right shoulder of the driver "MAR" with a circle around it and "Made in The United States of America, New York, N.Y." around the circumference (see images). The license plate number is "268", which, along with the red painted inside of the drivers arms (as it should be!) indicates this earlier version and authenticity.
Nearly 100 years old, it still operates fine and, upon winding the attached wind-up key a few times and placing the toy on the ground, the motorcycle and driver move across the floor on the way to their deliveries; do not over wind. (see video attached to this listing).
The toy is completely original and in very good condition, with no repairs or restorations of any kind and no touch up or repaint. The arms and steering handle bars are also original (sometimes replaced) and they have the appropriate paint and markings.
This would make a welcome addition to a collection of pre-war Americana.
Dimensions: 9 7/8" long x 5 7/8" wide x 5 3/4" high
After 40 plus years of dealing and collecting toys, I am justly qualified to guarantee and present the authenticity of antique and vintage toys...
Category
1930s Vintage Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Tin
1930s Austrian Horse Toy
By Craft and Folk Art Museum
Located in Sag Harbor, NY
Beautiful 1930s Austrian horse toy. Wonderful patina.
Category
1920s Austrian Vintage Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Bentwood
Rare Santa, Clown and Lantern Christmas Ornament Vintage, 1930s
Located in Nuernberg, DE
A rare Christmas ornament set of three. Each is made from mouth blown glass, this would be a great addition for your Christmas or feather tree. Clown Head is approx. 3 1/4" high and 1 3/4" at the widest point, think it is approx. 1940s or older. Lantern is approx. 2 5/8" high (1910s) and the little Santa...
Category
1930s German Vintage Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Wire
Rare Chenille Cotton Basket Christmas Ornament Antique, German, 1910s
Located in Nuernberg, DE
A rare Christmas ornament. It was made from Chenille, wire and cotton, this would be a great antique addition for your Christmas or feather tree.
Category
1910s German Vintage Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Wire
House Altar Accessories Early 20th Century Pewter Tin Dollhouse Doll Toys, 1900s
Located in Nuernberg, DE
Here I have to offer a fine antique classic early 20th century selection of House Altar Christianity miniatures and accessories. A wonderful decorative appeal! Each was made in Germa...
Category
Early 20th Century German Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Pewter
Late 1940s Penny Toy Wind-Up Train, Attributed Japan
Located in Incline Village, NV
Diminutive late 1940s "penny toy like" wind-up tin toy platform train modern and sleek looking for that era; it is hand painted and lithographed in bright co...
Category
1940s Japanese Vintage Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Tin
Antler Handle Fixed Blade Knife with Leather Sheath Antique German Folk Art
Located in Nuernberg, DE
A antique Knife from Solingen, Germany. Deer antler or stag handle with original sheath 3.13" blade, 6.75" Overall. Used in good condition with some sharpe...
Category
Early 20th Century Austrian Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Metal
Swedish Folk Wooden Dala Pig Toy, circa 1960
By Nils Olsson
Located in Barcelona, Barcelona
Handpainted Swedish wooden traditional Dala pig toy.
Designed by Nils Olsson in Sweden, circa 1960.
Materials:
Wood
In original condition, with minor wear consistent with age...
Category
1960s Swedish Vintage Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Wood
Early 20th Century Bezalel Jerusalem Shabbat Tray
Located in New York, NY
Early 20th century Bezalel Jerusalem wooden tray inlaid with Jerusalem stone and mother of pearl.
The large tray is carved with the Seven Species on its margins, while the center is...
Category
Early 20th Century Israeli Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Marble
Midcentury European Brown and Green Ceramic Cross Otherworldly Christ Figure
Located in Chicago, IL
With a wink to brutalism, this wall cross is a unique midcentury work by Flemish artisans. The dark brown hue, reminiscent of weathered patina, adds a sense of history to the cross, while the textured slate-like ceramic further enhances its character.
The focal point of this cross is the subtle and mysterious Christ figure at its center. As if worn down by the passage of time, the relief of the outline hints at a transcendent presence. The blend of dark brown and green tones creates an ethereal quality, evoking a sense of otherworldliness and inviting contemplation.
Our cross collection encompasses a wide range of styles, from futurist modernism to raw brutalism, offering many possibilities for creating a custom wall of modernist crucifixes...
Category
1950s European Vintage Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Ceramic
Polte Magdeburg 1911 WWI Brass Artillery Shell Casing Stool
Located in Hanover, MA
Massive World War I brass artillery shell case marked "Polte Magdeburg Juni 1911" fitted with custom round pillbox cushion upholstered in sea foa...
Category
1910s German Vintage Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Brass
Rare 911 Porsche Friction Tin Toy by Bandai Toy Co. Made in Japan Circa 1960's
Located in Incline Village, NV
Offered here is a whitish/cream colored friction tin toy 911 Porsche circa 1960's, marked at the bottom; "Porsche" in addition to the Bandai Toy Company logo embossed, along with "Made in Japan" designation being noted.
The Bandai Toy Company is a post war toy company established in Taito, Japan circa 1950 and is still conducting business today, albeit, it has shifted from toy manufacturing to video toy accessories.
This is a very rare toy and is coveted by collectors of both toys and fast cars. Except for the odd and minor scratch here and there, the toy is in very nice, all original condition with absolutely no restoration or touch up to the paint or mechanism (see images).
The action and friction functionality works well (see video).
Motor and engine mechanics and nomenclature are colorfully displayed through the plastic rear trunk window (see image); while the colorful interior can be seen through the side window.
Car is all tin, with rubber tires and plastic windows.
Dimensions: 10 1/4" long x 4" wide x 3 1/4" high.
Priced competitively; note that this toy doesn't become available very often and the few that have turned up in recent years , don't work and are several hundred dollars more than mine.
Note: After 40 plus years of dealing and collecting toys, I am justly qualified to guarantee and present the authenticity of antique and vintage toys; important considering fakes and reproductions in the marketplace
it would behoove an enterprising collector, dealer, or decorator to take advantage of the opportunity to buy as many of the vintage tin...
Category
1960s Japanese Vintage Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Tin
19th Century Antique Ships Chandler Shop Advertising Sign
Located in Peabody, MA
A relic from Boston’s mercantile history and the seafaring trade. This 19th century shop sign displays a fairly detailed replica of a navigator’s octant (or sextant) and the proprietor’s name and street number...
Category
Late 19th Century American Antique Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Wood
Vintage Hanging North African Hanukkah Menorah
Located in San Diego, CA
Beautiful vintage hannukah menorah. This piece is cast brass that has aged beautifully with an ornate design that is beautiful and inspiring. The pati...
Category
1960s Central African Vintage Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Brass
Antique Inuit Carved Bone Folk Art Scrimshaw Cribbage Game Board
Located in Dayton, OH
Antique Inuit folk art carved bone cribbage board featuring a Polar Bear propped up by Seals. Measure: 10".
Category
Early 20th Century Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Bone
Beautiful Children's Sewing Machine Toy Bear Cat Motive by Carl Sieper Germany
Located in Nuernberg, DE
A beautiful Children Toy sewing machine. Made of metal. Was made in the years right after WWII and is marked "Made Germany, British Zone". Made by C...
Category
1940s German Vintage Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Metal
Rare, special smoking table, tabbacco accessories, Black Forest, Tramp Art, 1895
Located in Wien, AT
Fascinating smoking table with detachable accessories, made in Bavaria or Austria at the end of the 19th century.
The ingenious design features a column - stylized as a branch growi...
Category
1890s German Antique Folk Art Collectibles and Curiosities
Materials
Wood
Folk Art collectibles and curiosities for sale on 1stDibs.
Find a broad range of unique folk art collectibles and curiosities 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 collectibles and curiosities created in this style to your space, the works available on 1stDibs include more furniture and collectibles, folk art, decorative objects and other home furnishings, frequently crafted with wood, metal and other materials. If you’re shopping for used Folk Art collectibles and curiosities made in a specific country, there are Europe, North America, and United States pieces for sale on 1stDibs. While there are many designers and brands associated with original collectibles and curiosities, popular names associated with this style include Berber Tribes of Morocco, J. Chein & Co., Louis Marx and Company, 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 collectibles and curiosities differ depending upon multiple factors, including designer, materials, construction methods, condition and provenance. On 1stDibs, the price for these items starts at $29 and tops out at $45,000 while the average work can sell for $652.
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