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Hidden Folk Art Fetches $226,600 at Auction
23 Oct
Summary
- A rare 19th-century Pennsylvania Dutch folk art drawing sold for $226,600.
- The artwork, hidden in a folder for over 60 years, depicted George Washington.
- Bidding far surpassed the $15,000-$25,000 estimate, showing strong demand.
A rare 19th-century Pennsylvania Dutch folk art drawing, long forgotten in a manila folder, has commanded an impressive $226,600 at auction. This ink and watercolour fraktur bookplate, created in Pennsylvania in the early 1800s, features George Washington and an American eagle with 13 stars.
The artwork remained unseen in a private collection for over 60 years, its protective folder preserving its vibrant colours and delicate details. Auction estimates ranged from $15,000 to $25,000, but the final price, including buyer's premiums, soared far beyond expectations.
Fraktur, a tradition of the Pennsylvania German settlers, often adorned family Bibles and certificates. This particular piece, linked to Schwenkfelder folk art traditions, is notable for its political and patriotic imagery. Such depictions were less common than floral or religious motifs, making this artwork particularly sought after.
The sale underscores a strong market for well-preserved Pennsylvania German cultural artifacts. Collectibles with clear provenance and original vibrancy continue to attract significant interest from collectors and historical institutions, with this patriotic fraktur topping the auction's offerings.
