 The
American Eagle and Shield has been is enduring motif in
American design, appearing for more than 200 years on
all manner of decorative and functional objects.
This is a very well done mid-20th century example of the
eagle and shield which is hand painted onto a large
circular tray. Painted metal kitchenware, known as
toleware, is a folk art form that dates to the 19th
century. By the 20th century, the technique of
painting toleware became a hobby for many home artists,
with the styles typically floral in design. The
eagle and shield painted here is painted with a luminous
metallic gilt paint. The fine technique of the
artist results in a three-dimensional effect that lends
great visual depth and perspective to the eagle. The
eagle itself is a very classic form and the style of its
head is reminiscent of eagles from the Federal period,
circa 1790-1820. The great detail, high quality of
the painting, exceptional patriotic composition, and
beautiful gold-on-black presentation of the tray results
in a fantastic piece of patriotic Americana. |
