Folk Art Painted Wooden Sun Spokes Wheel

This unique piece of folk art is a circular, wall-hanging sculpture constructed from natural wood branches or saplings and a central wood slice. The outer rim is formed by bending slender, unbarked wooden branches into a rough circle, while eight straight, medium-thickness branches act as 'spokes' radiating from the center. The focal point is a central hub consisting of a thick wood cross-section (end grain) that has been hand-painted with a stylized celestial sun face. The face features a bright yellow base with rosy red cheeks, wide eyes, and defined lips, typical of naive or outsider art styles. The construction appears artisanal, likely using small nails or glue to join the branch elements. In terms of condition, there is a prominent vertical crack splitting the lower portion of the painted central wood slice. The bark on the branches shows natural irregularities, some peeling, and a weathered patina. The paint on the face exhibits minor scuffing and age-related fading, consistent with a mid-20th-century origin. There are no visible maker's marks, suggesting a communal or individual craft origins. The craftsmanship is intentionally rustic, emphasizing raw natural materials and simple, vibrant iconography.