Antique Oil painting on Devoe Academy Board that is 19th or very early 20th century. It was clearly inspired by Benjamin Champney’s harvest scene of the white mountains in New Hampshire. It may be signed lower left but I can not discern. What’s special is the folk art nature of this work. It was likely done by an amateur of the period-probably a young farmer or blue collar person-who took the time and had the inspiration to chase what Champney had previously executed- the grandeur of American pastoral autumn. This is what makes folk art so special in my opinion- it uniquely connects us back to those of a bygone era in such a profound way. How proud would the person who painted this be to know that, after 100+ years, their work would be cherished by people of today? Such probably seemed impossible during the period lived! Size unframed is about 9.25″ x 12.5″. Framed size is 14.5″ x 17.5″. Size is ideal for any room in the house! The wood/gilded frame alone is a nice old survivor.
