Egg Gathering Art Appraisal

Roussel Abiker Framed Folk Art Textile 'Egg Gathering' or 'The Egg Sellers'

This item is a framed textile artwork, likely a tapestry or needlepoint, depicting a scene with multiple figures, predominantly women or girls, in what appears to be a garden or natural setting, engaged in collecting eggs. The artwork is characterized by its vibrant and rich color palette, featuring dominant shades of blues, greens, purples, and warm browns, with accents of white and other hues. The figures are styled in a folk art manner, identifiable by their stylized features, simple shapes, and a somewhat flat, two-dimensional presentation. Most figures wear wide-brimmed hats with a distinctive emerald green band, and many are holding white eggs. The textile itself exhibits a mix of textures, suggesting different stitching techniques or applied materials. Some areas, like the large flowers and foliage on the left, appear to be embroidered or appliquéd with discernible thread work, while other elements, such as the white eggs, show a reflective, almost shimmering quality, possibly indicating silk, satin, or a metallic thread. A prominent feature is a large, broken white eggshell in the foreground on the bottom left, from which foliage appears to spill. Another two intact white eggs are visible on the bottom right. The composition is dense with botanical elements, adding to the garden-like ambiance. The artwork is presented within a double frame. The inner matting is a light, possibly cream or off-white, board, bordered by a thin, bright blue-green line that directly abuts the artwork. The outer frame is a deep, forest green wood, providing a strong contrast and complement to the colors within the artwork. The overall condition appears good, with no obvious signs of significant damage such as tears, fading, or extreme discoloration visible through the glass. The textile seems to be well-preserved under glass, which protects it from dust and environmental degradation. The artist's name, 'Roussel Abiker,' is mentioned, indicating it is likely a work by this artist, known for folk or textile art. The style points to a contemporary folk art aesthetic, possibly mid-to-late 20th century or early 21st century.