Pair 19th Century Carved Folk Art Saluting Soldiers On Modern Stands
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A Charming Pair Of 19th Century Carved Wood Folk Art Saluting Soldiers Mounted On Modern Stands. Research Suggests That These Are Possibly Pieces Of Convalescent Art Made By A Recovering Soldier. Judging By The Uniforms, It’s Possible These We’re Made During The Crimean War.
'Convalescent Art' was introduced during the 1850's and was used more prominently during World War 1 as a form of occupational therapy for soldiers recovering from injury or suffering with mental health conditions.
British military patients were encouraged to get creative to help keep their minds active and to distract them from their recovery. They developed their artistry through their regimental identity, particularly with the older tradition of regimental handicrafts during the Crimean War. Some patients chose patriotic themes, such as the Union Jack or their regimental insignia.
The art form chosen by convalescing soldiers varied, with embroidering, painting and carving proving the most popular subjects, and there were some impressive creations that came out of this.
This pair of naively carved wooden folk art soldiers, dating from the 19th century (mounted on modern stands), certainly fit the mould. This artist went with a patriotic theme in the form of saluting soldiers in full regimental uniform, with those particular uniforms suggesting that they were perhaps also made during the Crimean War. An interesting element of 'Convalescent Art', particularly during the 19th century, is that the majority of it was left unsigned, with the only form of personalisation coming via the chosen subject or the scraps of material used.
Condition is good, commensurate with age. Some minor losses with typical age related wear. Please see photos. Mounted on modern stands.
Measures 42cm x 19cm