Wooden Folk Art Appraisal

Hand-Painted Wooden Folk Art Board by Barbara Edney (1982)

This item is a decorative wooden cutting board or serving platter, expertly hand-painted with a folk art motif. The base material appears to be a light-colored wood, possibly maple or birch, with clear visible grain patterns, indicating solid wood construction rather than veneer. The primary imagery depicts a central circular scene featuring two figures in traditional folk costumes, likely a man and a woman, engaged in what appears to be a courtship or dance. The man is on the left, shown in profile moving towards the woman on the right, who is mid-twirl. Above them floats a stylized red heart, symbolizing affection. Around this central medallion, there is an intricate border of swirling dark green or black vines and leaves, as well as a more muted inner border of brown hearts and patterns. Beyond the central scene, the board is adorned with vibrant floral elements featuring orange/red blossoms with green and yellow leaves, painted directly onto the wood. These flowers are arranged in an organic, flowing pattern around the periphery of the board. The colors used are rich and earthy, typical of folk art, including shades of brown, green, white, ochre, and red. The craftsmanship shows a confident hand, with distinct brushstrokes visible, contributing to its folk art aesthetic. The edge of the board is finished in a dark, possibly stained or painted, color providing a visual frame. The overall condition appears good, with a visible satin finish that protects the painted surface. There are no obvious signs of significant wear or damage, though a light patina consistent with age might be present. Given the additional context provided, this piece is identified as 'Folk art by Barbara Edney 1982', placing its creation in the early 1980s, which aligns with the overall aesthetic and style.