Colorful Bill Rank Framed Folk Art Hand Painted Theorem Birds on a Fruit Bowl
Description: A very decorative and colorful framed oil on velveteen primitive painting depicting a brown colored basket or bowl full of colorful fruits and sitting on what appears to be a brown oval rug. The fruits, which include strawberries, grapes, and peaches, are very colorful with brown, yellow, red, purple, and green. There are two birds with long blue tails standing on top. One bird is yellow and the other is blue. However, both have very long and curved tails which are blue with red, yellow and white highlights. The artwork is signed below one of the strawberries near the top (see the next to last photo). The painting comes in a wooden frame with light blue mottling on reddish brown background. The artwork is covered with glass for protection. The piece has brown paper backing with a wire across to hang from. The piece is not dated, but is signed Bill Rank. Mr. Rank, an artist from Southeastern Pennsylvania, lived in the period 1921-2000. We believe the piece was probably done in the mid 1970s-1980s. A nice piece of American Folk Art in the best Pennsylvania Dutch tradition to add to your collection. Please carefully review the photos presented as they are part and parcel of our description.
Date: Unknown but probably mid 1970s-1980s. Mr. Rank died in 2000.
Origin: Purchased at an estate auction in Southeastern Pennsylvania, USA
Size: The piece measures ~18 5/8" by ~16 3/4" and weighs 3 pounds ans 2.5 ounces.
Artist: Bill (William) Rank.
Marks: Signed "Bill Rank" below one of the strawberries near the top (see the next to last photo).
Distinguishing Characteristics - Most Interesting About The Piece: This is a beautiful and very nice decorative primitive Pennsylvania Dutch style folk art piece. It would display very well in your collection or can be used as an accent for your home décor.
Condition: The piece is in very good condition with no problems that we could find. The frame has a few scratches and some minor dings. The paper covering on the back shows a few tears and punctures which can be seen in the photo. In addition, the backing has two yellow corners of paper from a label that was taped to the back and was removed leaving the corners. However, the paper backing is in place and shows no appreciable losses. Of course, this paper can be replaced with new paper, but we leave that to the discretion of the new owner. The back is also equipped with wire needed to hang the piece. A great piece, ready to hang on your wall and would be a good addition to your collection of folk art. Please view photos carefully for additional condition information and to appreciate its beauty of this nice piece.
