R. Angell's Tavern Sign

c. 1939

John Matulis

Associated Names
John Matulis

Artist, American, 1910 - 2000

This is a painting of a vintage sign for a business dated 1808. The sign features a stylized bird depicted in a simplistic, almost silhouette-like manner, with its wings spread. The bird holds symbols or tools in its talons. Below the bird is the text "Entertainment by R. ANGELL" inscribed with a traditional serif font. The painting is presented on a texture resembling aged wood. The color palette is muted, with earthy browns and faded blues. This is in the style of early American folk art.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    watercolor and graphite on paperboard

  • Credit Line

    Index of American Design

  • Dimensions

    overall: 65.5 x 49.6 cm (25 13/16 x 19 1/2 in.)
    Original IAD Object: 18" wide; 28" high

  • Accession Number

    1943.8.8110

Artwork history & notes

Exhibition History

1995

  • Wood and Wood Carving from the Index of American Design, Pensacola Museum of Art, 1995, no cat.

2002

  • Drawing on America's Past: Folk Art, Modernism, and the Index of American Design, National Gallery of Art, Washington, 2002-2003, no. 66, as Sign for R. Angell's Inn.

Bibliography

1950

  • Christensen, Erwin O., The Index of American Design, New York: 1950, p. 189, no. 371.

1970

  • Hornung, Clarence P., Treasury of American Design. New York, 1970: 68, pl. 229.

2002

  • Drawing on America's Past: Folk Art, Modernism, and the Index of American Design. Exh. cat. National Gallery of Art, Washington, 2002-2003: no. 66.

Wikidata ID

Q64583790

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