FOLK ART AND AMERICANA

I've recently returned from a visit to New Hampshire where I was fortunate to stay at the amazing home of friends who are top Americana and folk art dealers.  They deal in the best of the best and live with their inventory.  This "Power Wall" in the lovely family room brings it all together -- each piece a standout on its own, but when combined the effect is truly incredible!

Opposite the "Power Wall" filled with folk art and furniture are a bank of windows spanning the length of the room overlooking three acres of pines.  Absolutely breathtaking in the snow.   I was hoping to be snowbound at least one day so I could spend my time just staring out the window looking for a moose or a bear . . .

. . . but that never happened, and so I had to make do with Larry, a massive German shepard measuring six feet long from nose to tail.  He stands counter height in the kitchen, but has impeccible manners and never disturbs while in the kitchen preparing a meal.   Biggest baby I ever saw!

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The room is flanked on either end with massive one-piece cupboards -- both absolute treasures -- and weather vanes with wonderful patina are the perfect accessories.  Note the "heart and hand" staffs which are a particular interest of the husband.  "Heart and hand" (Oddfellows) folk art is displayed throughout the house so beautifully!

                    Here two more heart and hand staffs are displayed next to the one-piece cupboard in the opposite corner of the room.

 

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A rare three-dimensional Oddfellows sign once displayed outside an Oddfellows Hall comprised of the signature Oddfellows three rings of a chain with the letters F L T for faith, love and trust.  Displays beautifully over a knockout hooked rug. 

 

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Of course, with early Americana and folk art it's all about surface, and this piece with its original mustard paint does not disappoint!

 

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This metal "bannerette" with original gold gilt paint has got it all!   Hanging above the end of the bannerette is an extremely rare "heart and hand" pen wipe -- ivory leather gloves with ruffles at the wrists and red hearts.   This is the piece I would have most loved to hide in my suitcase and bring back with me!

 

     Uncle Sam stands watch at the door frame entering the family room from the formal living room . . . also filled with pieces not to be believed!

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