
Vintage Hand-Carved Wooden Swan Decoy
This is a hand-carved decorative wooden swan figurine or decoy characterized by an elegant, elongated 'S-curve' neck and a downward-sloping head. The piece is crafted from a light-colored wood, possibly cedar or pine, which shows a fine, subtle grain throughout the body and neck. The finish appears to be a natural matte or light satin wax, highlighting the warm, golden-brown tones of the wood. The beak is accented with an orange-red pigment, providing a localized contrast to the monochromatic body. The carving style is smooth and minimalist, emphasizing form and silhouette over intricate feather detailing, which suggests a mid-20th-century folk art influence. The construction appears to be multi-part, with the head and neck likely joined to the solid body using a dowel and adhesive, a common technique in avian woodcarving. In terms of condition, the item exhibits a light, age-appropriate patina with some dust accumulation in the crevices and very minor surface abrasions. No major structural cracks or repairs are visible from this perspective. The craftsmanship shows a high level of symmetry and balance, with the weighted base allowing it to sit firmly on a flat surface. This style of swan is common in American decorative arts from the 1970s through the 1990s as part of the country-chic or rustic interior design movement.
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Estimated Value
$150 - $250
Basic Information
Category
Folk Art / Decorative Collectibles
Appraised On
February 21, 2026
Estimated Value
$150 - $250
Item Description
This is a hand-carved decorative wooden swan figurine or decoy characterized by an elegant, elongated 'S-curve' neck and a downward-sloping head. The piece is crafted from a light-colored wood, possibly cedar or pine, which shows a fine, subtle grain throughout the body and neck. The finish appears to be a natural matte or light satin wax, highlighting the warm, golden-brown tones of the wood. The beak is accented with an orange-red pigment, providing a localized contrast to the monochromatic body. The carving style is smooth and minimalist, emphasizing form and silhouette over intricate feather detailing, which suggests a mid-20th-century folk art influence. The construction appears to be multi-part, with the head and neck likely joined to the solid body using a dowel and adhesive, a common technique in avian woodcarving. In terms of condition, the item exhibits a light, age-appropriate patina with some dust accumulation in the crevices and very minor surface abrasions. No major structural cracks or repairs are visible from this perspective. The craftsmanship shows a high level of symmetry and balance, with the weighted base allowing it to sit firmly on a flat surface. This style of swan is common in American decorative arts from the 1970s through the 1990s as part of the country-chic or rustic interior design movement.
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