Decorative ornament - Italy





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Hand-painted wooden panel from Sicily dating to 1850–1900, made of red fir wood, 100 cm wide by 40 cm high by 5 cm deep, in good used condition with small signs of age and stains.
Description from the seller
Hand-painted wooden board of the Sicilian cart painting emerges between the end of the 18th century and the 19th century as a decoration of a sturdy working vehicle. Over time it has transformed into an extraordinary form of popular art, combining carving, artistic ferrulework and visual storytelling to protect the wood, ward off bad luck and show the pride of the cart driver. Origins and Function of the Decorations Practical purpose: The paint protected the wood of the sides and wheels from rain, sun and wear. Apotropaic value: Religious symbols, saints and Medusa heads were painted to protect the journey and attract good fortune. Social status: The decorated cart displayed the wealth and skill of the owner, who often rose from simple farmer to trader. The Themes and Subjects of the Paintings Knightly Epic: Stories of the Paladins of France, of Orlando and Rinaldo, a symbol of courage and defense of the merchandise. Religion and Myth: Biblical scenes, local patrons and episodes of classical antiquity. Daily Life: Popular tales, landscapes and island folklore. The Regional Schools Palermo Style: Slanted sides, warm tones dominated by fire red and rich gilding. Catanese/Siracusano Style: Vertical and rectangular sides, with deep blue backgrounds and vivid colors inspired by the sea and by Trapani. The panel measures 100 in width by 40 in height.
Hand-painted wooden board of the Sicilian cart painting emerges between the end of the 18th century and the 19th century as a decoration of a sturdy working vehicle. Over time it has transformed into an extraordinary form of popular art, combining carving, artistic ferrulework and visual storytelling to protect the wood, ward off bad luck and show the pride of the cart driver. Origins and Function of the Decorations Practical purpose: The paint protected the wood of the sides and wheels from rain, sun and wear. Apotropaic value: Religious symbols, saints and Medusa heads were painted to protect the journey and attract good fortune. Social status: The decorated cart displayed the wealth and skill of the owner, who often rose from simple farmer to trader. The Themes and Subjects of the Paintings Knightly Epic: Stories of the Paladins of France, of Orlando and Rinaldo, a symbol of courage and defense of the merchandise. Religion and Myth: Biblical scenes, local patrons and episodes of classical antiquity. Daily Life: Popular tales, landscapes and island folklore. The Regional Schools Palermo Style: Slanted sides, warm tones dominated by fire red and rich gilding. Catanese/Siracusano Style: Vertical and rectangular sides, with deep blue backgrounds and vivid colors inspired by the sea and by Trapani. The panel measures 100 in width by 40 in height.

