Mid-Century Modern Mixed Media Wood Inlay Relief Art by Sagona

This rectangular wall hanging is an example of mid-century modern mixed media relief art, featuring a stylized floral arrangement of tulips in a basket. The piece is constructed using thin wood veneers or laminates layered to create a three-dimensional effect against a dark, vertical-planked wooden background. The composition includes four tulip blossoms in shades of muted pink and purple, supported by curved, thin wooden stems. Long, pale yellow-green leaves rise from a woven-texture basket, while a single purple bloom appears to spill over the edge. The foreground features horizontal wood graining, signed in the lower right corner with 'Sagona' in a cursive script. Measuring approximately 24 by 36 inches, the work is enclosed in a simple, light-toned wooden frame with a white inner border. The condition shows age-appropriate wear, including minor scuffing on the frame's edges, light surface dust, and some slight fading or discoloration to the painted and stained surfaces. This style is characteristic of decorative handcrafted artisan work from the 1960s to 1970s, showcasing the era's preoccupation with organic materials and folk-inspired motifs. The craftsmanship involves precise cutting and layering of wood components, though the overall finish is commercial in nature.

I have conducted a visual appraisal of this mid-century modern mixed media relief by Sagona. The piece displays a characteristic 1960s-70s aesthetic, utilizing layered wood veneers to create a stylized floral motif. The 'Sagona' signature appears consistent with known decorative artisan labels of the era, which often specialized in mass-marketed but hand-finished wall decor sold through furniture galleries and interior design boutiques. Condition-wise, the work shows expected age-related wear. I note minor surface abrasions and superficial scuffing on the frame. The fading of the pink and purple pigments on the tulip heads is common for organic dyes used in this period, but it does slightly detract from the visual 'pop' of the relief. The structural integrity of the wood inlay appears sound, with no visible lifting of the veneers. Market demand for Sagona-signed pieces remains steady among MCM enthusiasts seeking accessible, oversized wall hangings. Comparable sales for Sagona reliefs of this 24x36 size typically fall between $250 and $450 depending on the complexity of the subject matter. While not considered high art, its rarity is moderate as these were produced in limited commercial runs. Limitation of Authenticity: This assessment is based on digital images only. A physical inspection is required to confirm the types of adhesives used and to ensure no hidden structural damage or pest infestation exists behind the backing. Further authentication would require provenance documentation or original sales receipts. For a definitive valuation, I would need to examine the wood grain under magnification to confirm the veneer species and check for any modern repairs or non-original finishes that could affect the item's historical integrity.