Handmade Needlepoint Appraisal

Framed Needlepoint of Horses Pulling a Cart

This item is a framed needlepoint or tapestry artwork depicting a historical or rural scene with two draft horses pulling a cart, driven by two figures. The artwork is characterized by its distinct pixelated appearance typical of needlepoint or cross-stitch, using a variety of yarn colors including white, black, various shades of brown, green, red, and beige/tan for the ground. The horses are predominantly white with black harnessing details and red or orange accents on their manes, suggesting a festive or ceremonial appearance. The two male figures in the cart are depicted with dark hats and brown jackets over red shirts. The background is a dense forest or foliage in varying shades of green, with some lighter areas potentially indicating sky or distant elements. The textile itself appears to be in good condition with no obvious tears, fraying, or significant discoloration. However, the yarn texture and stitching pattern would require closer inspection to differentiate between needlepoint and other textile art forms; given the visible 'pixels,' needlepoint is highly probable. The piece is housed in a simple, rectangular wooden frame with a light to medium brown stain, featuring a visible wood grain. The frame's construction appears to be straightforward, likely glued and possibly nailed at the corners. There is a price tag visible on the top right corner of the frame, indicating a retail item, possibly from a thrift store or consignment shop, with a price of $6.00. The frame shows some minor surface wear consistent with age and handling, such as light scratches or scuffs, but no major damage like cracks or chips. The overall aesthetic suggests a piece from the mid to late 20th century, possibly as a finished kit or a handmade item by an amateur artisan, given the commonality of such textile art as a hobby during that period.