Illinois - Folk Art

This late 20th-century Acoma Pueblo pottery bowl is a striking example of the artistry and craftsmanship synonymous with Acoma pottery. Hand-painted with a meticulous black-and-white...

Very fine Charles Perdew pintail duck decoy from the Konopasek decoy collection. The decoy is a three piece, hollow body construction, with scratch-comb feather...

This early 21st-century Acoma Pueblo pottery bowl, crafted by renowned master potter Virginia Victorino, exemplifies the precision and beauty of traditional Acoma design. The hand-pa...

A 20th century American Folk Art hand-carved and painted wood stop sign mounted on a custom steel stand.

A sculptural armchair and matching footstool from the late 19th century, artfully assembled from the curving forms of American cattle horns. At once delicate and dramatic, the chair ...

Collection of 3-authentic circa early 1900’s Eskimo Inuit sealskin covered children’s kayak models. We currently have several available is different sizes and age, but all are authen...

Jim Rose, known primarily for his steel furniture, was an avid collector and scoured salvage yards for unique, interesting items. Here, a beautifully rusted tobacco box, a steel egg...

An incredible and rare 15th century French carved limestone fragment depicting the back of a man's head with a wavy hair texture, and mounted on a c...

Immerse yourself in the artistry and heritage of early American craftsmanship with this exquisite mid-1800s appliqué quilt, lovingly hand-stitched in Pennsylvania. Featuring a charming “Floral” pattern, the quilt displays delicate pink and orange blossoms with graceful green stems and leaves, all beautifully arranged on a soft ivory background. Each flower was individually cut, placed, and stitched by hand, creating a rich tapestry of color and texture. Framed by meticulously crafted panels, this quilt is a remarkable example of the care and precision that define 19th-century American textile art. This quilt is more than just a coverlet—it is a heartfelt expression of dedication and artistry. As a true antique, it holds immense historical and collectible value. Its timeless beauty and delicate nature make it a stunning candidate for wall display, transforming any space into a gallery of vintage elegance. Whether cherished as a collector’s piece or admired as wall art, this rare floral appliqué quilt is a captivating tribute to America’s quilting legacy. Dimensions: 78” x 81” Date of Manufacture: Mid 19th Century Place of Origin: Pennsylvania, United States Material: Cotton, Applique Condition: Wear consistent with age and use The Persian Knot, SKU 2282 American Applique Quilts, Vintage Pennsylvania Quilts, Antique Applique Quilts, Applique Quilts, Pennsylvania Applique Quilts, Vintage Raising Barn Quilt, Vintage Log...

Northern white pine carved model of a New England double masted fishing catch with cotton sails. An engraving of a fish adorns one side of the hull. American, early 20th century.

A whimsical and playful early 20th century leopard-form mancala game board carved with the board resting on the leopard's back and with a patina that only a hundred years of use coul...

Primitive Americana Hand-Woven Folk Art Rug This one-of-a-kind piece is an American Folk Art rug designed and hand-crafted by an unknown artisan. As is the case with similar pieces,...

An original 100% cotton bunting Hungarian flag with metal grommets, made by Bulldog in Verona, New Jersey. Heavy woven fabric with bold color. Measures exactly 32.25" high x 58" wid...

This extraordinary African American crazy quilt, hand-pieced and embroidered in the early 1900s, is a vivid expression of creativity, resilience, and cultural storytelling. Composed of 25 distinct blocks arranged in a 5x5 grid, each approximately 13 inches square, the quilt features an array of rich wool fabrics in hues of red, brown, gray, black, navy, and pale green—cut into dynamic rectangular and trapezoidal shapes. Every piece is meticulously hand-appliquéd and accented with elegant feather stitch embroidery, lending intricate detail and texture to the overall composition. A soft gray flannel border, 5 inches wide, frames the quilt, while the reverse is backed with warm gray cotton flannel, adding both comfort and contrast. More than just a textile, this quilt is a historical artifact—one that reflects the ingenuity and artistry of African American makers during a pivotal era in American history. Early African American quilts from the 19th and early 20th centuries have become highly sought after for their rarity, authenticity, and profound cultural significance. A striking addition to any collection, this quilt stands as both a visual masterpiece and a powerful testament to the legacy of African American folk art. Dimensions: 77.5” x 77.5” Date of Manufacture: 1st Quarter of the 1900s Place of Origin: United States Material: Wool, Cotton Condition: Good The Persian Knot, SKU 2079 African American Quilts, Southern Quilts, Gee’s Bend Quilts, Alabama Quilts, 19th Century Quilts, African American Art, Antique African American Quilts...

A charming early 20th American Folk Art carved pine rooster weathervane with a wonderful silhouette with a large tail, applied wings, and copper legs all supported by an iron rod wit...

A striking early 20th century Navajo blanket with a bold all-over diamond pattern woven in crimson, white, gray, and black wool.

This standing effigy figure was crafted in 300 BC from the ancient Chupicuaro region of Mexico and was likely used as a ritual or burial offering. The ceramic works of the Chupicuaro...

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 found steel is reworked, pr...

Formed by pounding flattened clay around a convex mold, this oblong footed vessel is a water storage jar known as a jidaga, created by women of the Bambara people of Mali. The body o...

This exquisite American appliqué quilt, hand-stitched in Pennsylvania during the late 1800s, is a remarkable example of 19th-century textile artistry. Featuring a charming “Floral” pattern, the quilt showcases delicate red and pink blossoms with graceful green stems and leaves, all set against a soft ivory background. Each element of the design was individually hand-cut and appliquéd with meticulous care, framed within panels that speak to the quilter’s precision and patience. The result is a visually stunning composition that radiates warmth, craftsmanship, and heartfelt dedication. Quilts of this era—especially those entirely hand-stitched—are increasingly rare and highly collectible, prized for their historical value and timeless beauty. Due to its delicacy and artistic appeal, this quilt is especially well-suited for use as a wall-hung tapestry, where it can be appreciated as a piece of early American folk art. A true labor of love, this quilt offers both visual serenity and a deep connection to America's rich quilting heritage. Dimensions: 71” x 72” Date of Manufacture: Late 1800s Place of Origin: Pennsylvania, United States Material: Cotton, Applique Condition: Excellent The Persian Knot, SKU 1905 American Applique Quilts, Vintage Pennsylvania Quilts, Antique Applique Quilts, Applique Quilts, Pennsylvania Applique Quilts, Vintage Raising Barn Quilt...

American handmade two part rag rug with bound edges. The rug pattern is organized in repeated bands of raspberry, blue, tan, and black. American, circa 1850-1900.

Awesome American pine original paint Child's Cupboard finished in a stunning Georgian Blue with glass knobs. The back board on top of the piece can be removed upon request-- without ...

A stunning and rare 18th century French hand-wrought iron weathervane, from Normandy, with a stylized dragon "flag" the moves according the wind, and with four wrought-iron flowers t...

This rare 18th-century Ngelima bronze currency manilla is a stunning artifact, weighing an impressive 20 pounds of solid bronze. Adorned with intricate incised line drawings at its e...

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...

Antique zinc weathervane that we believe probably came from France and was constructed around the turn of the century and by that we mean circa 1900. Completely original and unrestor...

Visually dynamic and highly textured, this raffia textile expresses the irregular, geometric patterns typical of Kuba textile art. Created by an artisan of the Kuba people of the Dem...

This early 20th-century Yoruba Ọ̀sanyìn staff, meticulously crafted from wrought iron, features a prominent central bird surrounded by several stylized avian figures, symbolizing spi...

These two hand-carved sheep by Stephen Huneck capture everything that makes his work so beloved: warmth, whimsy, and an unshakable respect for rural life. One sheep stands tall with ...

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 ...

This complete set of oversized carved wood dominoes is both fun and functional, perfect for family game nights or leisurely afternoons at your weekend retreat. Each domino is thought...

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 found steel is reworked, pr...

Celebrate the brilliance of American folk art with this exquisite hand-stitched silk quilt from the late 19th century. Crafted with exceptional skill and care, this quilt features an ultra-modern aesthetic that echoes the iconic “piece bars” style popularized by 19th-century Mennonite quilters in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. Each rectangular silk piece—measuring approximately 1” x 5”—was individually cut and stitched by hand, creating a striking geometric design that feels both timeless and avant-garde. The rich array of vibrant silk fabrics shimmers with life, making this quilt a true visual feast and a testament to the maker’s artistry and dedication. More than a textile, this quilt is a labor of love—an heirloom-quality work of art that bridges function and beauty. Due to the delicate nature of 19th-century silk, such quilts have become increasingly rare and highly collectible. Their fragility only adds to their mystique and historical value. Perfect as a wall tapestry, this handcrafted quilt is equally captivating whether displayed vertically or horizontally. It’s a powerful conversation piece and a beautiful window into America’s rich quilting heritage. Dimensions: 60” x 78” Date of Manufacture: 4th Quarter of 19th Century Place of Origin: United States Material: Silk Fabric Condition: Wear consistent with age and use The Persian Knot, SKU: 2268 Antique Mennonite Quilts, Pennsylvania Mennonite Quilts, American Applique Quilts, Vintage Pennsylvania Quilts, Antique Applique Quilts...

This early 20th century cabinet is brightly painted in the Sino-Tibetan style with lush florals and botanical scrollwork. Brushed by hand in an upbeat palette of golden yellow, red-o...

This Late Period to Ptolemaic Period Egyptian carved wood ear, once part of a mummy mask, stands as a poignant testament to ancient Egyptian customs and beliefs. Dating back over 250...

The Baule people of the Ivory Coast used ram masks in secular, public performances. Realistically carved, and wonderfully decorated, they were designed to draw attention and enhance ...

An exquisite early 20th-century Lone Star quilt, entirely hand-stitched and hand-quilted, showcasing a radiant central star motif on an ivory ground with a delicate baby blue border. The star design bursts with brilliant shades of green, yellow, red, and pink, arranged with remarkable precision and artistry. The quilt’s reverse features a clean, solid ivory backing, highlighting the craftsmanship of its fine stitching. Dating to the early 1900s, this untouched vintage textile is a superb example of American quilting tradition. With its bold graphic impact and refined color palette, it is ideal for use as wall art or a statement piece in a curated interior. Dimensions: 79” x 82” Date of Manufacture: 1st Quarter of the 1900s Place of Origin: United States Material: Cotton Condition: Good The Persian Knot Gallery, SKU 2080 vintage Lone Star quilt, hand-stitched antique quilt, early 1900s quilt, American star quilt, green yellow red quilt, pink ivory quilt, collectible textile art, hand-quilted Lone Star, antique patchwork quilt, vintage wall art quilt, heirloom American quilt, baby blue border quilt, Lone Star wall hanging, fine vintage quilt, historic handmade quilt, Pennsylvania Quilts, Amish Quilts, Lone Star Quilts, Americana, American Folk Art, Antique American Textiles...

This hand embroidered shoulder is from the Akha tribe and has been framed for display on a wall. The Akha are an indigenous hill tribe who live in small villages at higher elevations...

Massive Five Foot Tall Navajo Kachina Doll is signed "by GUY V.Y." on the base, and titled "Eagle Dance" Guy Yazzie and his wife Pearl Zonnie Chee Horseherder Yazzie had at least 8-c...

This standing effigy was crafted in 500 A.D. - 1000 A.D. Mesoamerica using the gray clay paste that characterizes La Tolita-Tumaco ceramics of early Colombia-Ecuador. The art of La Tolita-Tumaco civilization is considered one of the most developed of the pre-Columbian period as metalwork and ceramics were the most popular form of cultural expression. The ceramic creations of this culture were often based on the human figure to create portraits of people and realistic daily scenes of life cycles and the human condition. This figure appears to be wearing a loincloth and is adorned with a beaded necklace and an elaborate coiffure or headdress. There are holes lining each ear indicating the potential use of ear spools...

This 20th-century American Folk Art masterpiece is a life-size Canada goose that captures the essence of rural creativity and cultural heritage. Its outstretched wings, crafted from ...

This mid-19th century American Rockinghamware stoneware flask is a delightful nod to whimsy and practicality. Shaped like a humble potato, it’s a rare ...

Jim Rose, known primarily for his steel furniture, was an avid collector and scoured salvage yards for unique and interesting items. Here, found steel objects are welded together to ...

An incredible early 20th century Makenge hand-built ceramic palm wine pot with a graceful shape including a narrow neck and a wide belly. The pot is covered ...

This early 20th century American folk art draught horse weathervane is a remarkable piece crafted from sheet metal, capturing the essence of traditional American folk art. The weathe...

This late 19th century hand-held wood press is carved with a large mold used for shaping festive mooncakes. Packed with lotus root, red bean, or other regional fillings, mooncakes ar...

This extraordinary hand-stitched quilt, dating to the American Civil War era (circa 1860–1870), originates from the deep South—likely Alabama or Georgia—and stands as a powerful example of African American folk artistry during one of the most pivotal periods in American history. Crafted from wool and homespun blankets, the quilt features a striking design of diagonally pieced squares composed of repurposed clothing in shades of navy, brown, red, and gray. These textiles are believed to be remnants of garments worn during the Civil War, transformed through necessity and creativity into a work of enduring beauty and cultural significance. The back of the quilt is made from a bold red and gray striped textile, adding a distinctive visual contrast. Quilts like this—made by African Americans in the Reconstruction-era South—are exceedingly rare and deeply meaningful. They embody both resilience and resourcefulness, and serve as powerful expressions of heritage, survival, and artistic identity. This particular quilt comes from the collection of a Civil Rights attorney who has spent decades practicing in Alabama and Georgia, with a devoted interest in preserving African American folk art from the Civil War era. Its provenance adds another layer of depth and historical significance. Highly collectible and increasingly sought after, 19th-century African American Southern quilts are not only valuable artifacts—they are irreplaceable cultural legacies. Dimensions: 63” x 73” Date of Manufacture: 3rd Quarter of the 1800s Place of Origin: Alabama, United States Material: Cotton, wool Condition: Good The Persian Knot, SKU 1982 African American Quilts...

This sign was manufactured by Rawson & Evans sometime during the late 1800s and early 1900s. Rawson & Evans was best known for glue chipped glass signs and gold leaf signs. This sign...

Dated to the 19th century, this flat wooden panel is curiously etched with geometric patterns and dense triangle-work. Its original use remains unknown, perhaps it was a divination t...

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 found steel is reworked and...

1950’s enamel and neon corner Cafe sign. It has new transformer and wiring. Please note that there will be additional fee for making shipping crate.

A 1960s oil on canvas painting by French artist Pierre Coquet. This textured abstract features fluid, geometric motifs in burnt orange with brown accents. Signed ‘P. Coquet’ bottom r...

A whimsical early 20th century American Folk Art purple Martin pine birdhouse with two levels, eight entrances, and a wonderfully shingled roof and weath...

This mid-20th century American wooden game board box is as charming as it is versatile, offering timeless entertainment in a compact, travel-friendly design. Crafted from wood with a...

Dated to the 19th century, this flat wooden panel is curiously etched with geometric patterns, simple leaf motifs, and a triangle-work border. Its original use remains unknown - perh...

Stamps, or sellos, such as this one were common during the pre-Columbian period in Mesoamerica and most popular during the Formative Period that spanned the years between 1200-800 B....

This early 20th-century Yoruba Ọ̀sanyìn staff, meticulously crafted from wrought iron, features a prominent central bird surrounded by several stylized avian figures, symbolizing spi...

This wooden headdress was created by the Yoruba People of western Nigeria, and was worn during a masquerade known as egungun. A widespread Yoruba ritual, egungun performances honor a...