Vintage Monumental Folk Art Hand Carved Dog Sculpture
Date: Early-Mid 20th Century
Period: American Folk Art Revival
Medium: Carved and incised solid wood
Dimensions: Width: 83.8 cm (33") | Height: 58.4 cm (23") | Depth: 19 cm (7.5")
Description:
A substantial carved folk sculpture of a dog, executed from a single, solid block of wood. The artist employed a deep, subtractive carving technique to define the form, resulting in a two-toned patina where the lighter, untouched inner wood layer is exposed in the deepest recesses, contrasting with the darker, weathered outer surface.
The surface is covered with rhythmic, striated incisions that articulate the animal's coat. The lines themselves take on an almost abstract quality that follow the curvature of the animal instead of just representing the coat. A notable feature is the series of carved folds along the neck, interpreted as a stylized collar. The form exhibits a characteristically naive proportion and posture, yet achieves a sophisticated balance of mass and detail. The tail, which appears to have undergone a period repair, exhibits a dynamic, curved form. The animal and the method of carving is in the style of the Pennsylvania folk art carver Aaron Mountz. No signature found.
Condition: Good, stable condition. The piece exhibits a surface patina and wear consistent with age and gentle handling. A historical repair to the tail is noted.
Vintage Monumental Folk Art Hand Carved Dog Sculpture
Date: Early-Mid 20th Century
Period: American Folk Art Revival
Medium: Carved and incised solid wood
Dimensions: Width: 83.8 cm (33") | Height: 58.4 cm (23") | Depth: 19 cm (7.5")
Description:
A substantial carved folk sculpture of a dog, executed from a single, solid block of wood. The artist employed a deep, subtractive carving technique to define the form, resulting in a two-toned patina where the lighter, untouched inner wood layer is exposed in the deepest recesses, contrasting with the darker, weathered outer surface.
The surface is covered with rhythmic, striated incisions that articulate the animal's coat. The lines themselves take on an almost abstract quality that follow the curvature of the animal instead of just representing the coat. A notable feature is the series of carved folds along the neck, interpreted as a stylized collar. The form exhibits a characteristically naive proportion and posture, yet achieves a sophisticated balance of mass and detail. The tail, which appears to have undergone a period repair, exhibits a dynamic, curved form. The animal and the method of carving is in the style of the Pennsylvania folk art carver Aaron Mountz. No signature found.
Condition: Good, stable condition. The piece exhibits a surface patina and wear consistent with age and gentle handling. A historical repair to the tail is noted.
